October 11, 2019

Dolkart named deputy director at Detroit Institute of Art

Allison Kemmerer will become the Addison’s interim director
Judith Dolkart

After five years serving as The Mary Stripp & R. Crosby Kemper Director of the Addison Gallery of American Art, Judith Dolkart has accepted a new role that will take her to the Detroit Institute of Arts. In January, she will become the Deputy Director for Art, Education and Programs, a position that will tap her expertise in all facets of curatorial work, museum education, and programming for children and adults.

Dolkart will remain in her position at Andover through mid-December. Upon her departure, Allison Kemmerer, Mead Curator of Photography and senior curator of contemporary art, will become interim director.

During her time at Andover, Dolkart has supported a talented staff, stewarded a collection of more than 23,000 works, and created arts and culture opportunities that enlighten and engage the campus community and the broader public.

“I have been honored to work with a talented and dedicated staff, to serve as a steward for the gallery’s rich and noble collections, and to develop with the Addison team thought-provoking and innovative programming that complements all disciplines,” said Dolkart. “It has been a privilege to see students at Phillips Academy and at schools throughout the region discover the the Addison and make connections to their studies, the world, and themselves.”

Seeking to strengthen connections to the curriculum, she crafted an Addison strategic plan that continues to catalyze campus discussions with a poignant, timeless question: What is America?

“Judith and her team set a course that supports Andover’s goals for innovation and creativity, equity and inclusion, and empathy and balance, aiming to shape an Addison experience that educates visitors and addresses 21st century ideas and issues” said Clyfe Beckwith, assistant head of school for teaching and learning.

“Please join me in thanking Judith and congratulating her on this new opportunity to serve artists, educators, and the greater community in a culturally rich and historically significant region,” he continued. “Her talents, wisdom, and vision will be missed.”

Categories: Leadership

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