The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art announced a new executive director Friday. Todd DeShields Smith comes to the Charlotte museum from Orange County Museum of Art in California, where he served as CEO and director for the past six years.
Smith begins his new position Sept. 8.
His move east is a return to the Queen City; Smith served as curator at the Mint Museum from 1997-2000.
Smith assumes his position during the Bechtler's 10-year anniversary, and will oversee the development of a new strategic plan and all aspects of the museum.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Bechtler at this very important moment. Since its opening, the Bechtler has set a standard for top-notch exhibitions dedicated to the rich history of modernism, with its world-class collection as a source,” Smith said in a press release.
Smith previously served as executive director or president of the Tampa Museum of Art in Florida, the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston, South Carolina, and the Knoxville Museum of Art in Tennessee. He received a bachelor’s degree in art history and political science from Duke University and a master’s degree in the history of art from Indiana University.
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