From the JAYwalk
New Ross Director Begins Dream Job
The Richard M. Ross Art Museum has a new director. Erin Fletcher, formerly the exhibitions coordinator for The Ohio State University Libraries and Billy Ireland Cartoon Art Museum, joined OWU in August to lead the Ross Art Museum and the University’s Gallery 2001 and Mowry Alumni Gallery.
Fletcher will work with museum staff to oversee exhibits, coordinate lectures and other events, curate the museum’s permanent collection of more than 3,000 artworks, help solicit gifts and grants to support the museum, teach courses related to her expertise (such as gallery management), and provide leadership in museum marketing and community outreach.
Susan McDonough ’74, chair of the Ross Art Museum’s National Board of Advisors and a member of the search committee, says Fletcher has a history of collaboration and success that will serve her well in her new role.
“Erin is smart, articulate, and used to working in the college environment.” says McDonough. “We were in unanimous agreement that she’d be a perfect fit to continue the Ross’s mission.”
Fletcher says she is excited to continue the work begun by her predecessor, Justin Kronewetter, who retired after nearly 15 years as the Ross Art Museum’s inaugural director.
“I am delighted to join the OWU family as director of the Ross Art Museum,” Fletcher says. “It will be an honor to build on Justin’s legacy. Academic museums provide a space for exploration and innovation that is essential to a 21st-century learning community. It’s been my lifelong dream to work at a liberal arts university, and I look forward to collaborating with OWU’s excellent faculty, engaging with the student body, and responding to the needs of the broader community.”
Fletcher joined Ohio State in 2013 and previously worked as a retreat and residency coordinator for the Kentucky Foundation for Women.
She holds a Master of Arts degree in curatorial practice from California College of the Arts, a Master of Arts certificate in museum studies and education from John F. Kennedy University, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in sculpture and curatorial practice from the University of Louisville.
During the academic year, the Ross Art Museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Monday and Saturday.