sharon maidenberg Named Executive Director of The Contemporary Austin

Valerie Armstrong, President of the Board of Trustees of The Contemporary Austin, announced today that sharon maidenberg has been named the museum’s new Ernest and Sarah Butler Executive Director and CEO, following an international search. maidenberg comes to The Contemporary Austin from Headlands Center for the Arts in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, north of San Francisco, where she has served as Executive Director since 2010. She will assume her position in Austin on September 1, succeeding Louis Grachos, who left the museum in June 2019.

"I am thrilled to take on my next professional opportunity in one of the country’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving cities,” said sharon maidenberg. “Like the Bay Area, Austin is one of the most innovative places in the country, and it’s clear that culture, community, and creativity are deeply valued. I am eager to become part of the rich arts ecosystem in Austin at this critical time in the world—a time when the arts can and should play an integral role in society. During my tenure at Headlands I’ve worked with artists directly, built a strategic culture of relevant and thought-provoking audience engagement, and invested deeply in cultivating meaningful relationships. I look forward to applying my experience and perspective to The Contemporary’s already strong programs, and to working with the great staff and Board to write the organization’s next chapter."

Read the full press release here.

Pictured: sharon maidenberg, Ernest and Sarah Butler Executive Director & CEO, The Contemporary Austin. Photograph by Ben Porter Photography.