Seattle Art Museum has a new leader after 8-month CEO search

June 25, 2024 / 12:29 pm

caption: "The Hammering Man" stands in front of the entrance to the Seattle Art Museum in downtown Seattle.

After an eight-month search, the Seattle Art Museum has chosen a new CEO to lead the arts organization.

Scott Stulen will step into the role of CEO and museum director on August 26. The museum announced its selection Tuesday morning, after an "extensive international search." In his role, he will oversee the Seattle Art Museum, the Seattle Asian Art Museum, and the Olympic Sculpture Park.

"I am incredibly honored to be selected as the next CEO of the Seattle Art Museum," Stulen said in a statement. "Seattle has always been a city I deeply admire, and the opportunity to lead such a renowned institution is beyond my wildest dreams. SAM's three dynamic sites, talented and dedicated staff, and engaged board provide incredible opportunities to deepen our connections with the diverse communities we serve."

SAM has experienced several leadership changes in recent years. In June 2022, it welcomed José Carlos Diaz as its new deputy director of art. The museum has been without an official director since October 2023, when Amada Cruz stepped down. Former SAM director Kimerly Rorschach, and current COO Jeff Draeger, have stepped in as interim directors since then.

Stulen has an MFA in painting and drawing from the University of Minnesota, and a BFA in sculpture from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. He has worked for a variety of other arts organizations, most recently, the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, Okla., where he was also president and CEO. Previously, he was curator of audience experiences and performances at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

"Museums are vital to our lives, creating spaces where everyone feels they belong, learn, have fun, and connect," Stulen said. "As an artist, I approach things a bit differently, and I'm eager to bring this perspective to SAM along with my experience developing innovative and inclusive programs. I am thrilled to embark on this journey and look forward to collaborating with the community to shape SAM's future."

The Seattle Art Museum has more than 300 staff members and provides a range of educational programs.