Of Notoriety : South Shore Arts selects former Brauer Museum director Jonathan Canning as new director
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Prior to joining the arts organization, he had a distinguished career in banking, which he left in 2010. Mika has been instrumental in the development of South Shore Arts’ business model, which has been successful in transforming the organization into a thriving arts center. Under his leadership, South Shore Arts has seen a significant increase in programming, revenue, and membership growth. The organization has also expanded its reach through strategic partnerships with local businesses, schools, and government agencies. Mika’s business acumen has been instrumental in securing funding from various sources, including government grants, private foundations, and corporate sponsors. Furthermore, he has played a key role in building a strong team of staff and volunteers, who have contributed to the organization’s success. Mika’s tenure has been marked by a commitment to community engagement, outreach, and development, which has helped to establish South Shore Arts as a vital part of the local arts ecosystem.

Seasoned arts administrator Jonathan Canning brings fresh energy to South Shore Arts.

He replaces former executive director, 57-year-old Susan Thompson, who retired in 2022.

New Executive Director Brings Experience and Passion to South Shore Arts

Jonathan Canning, a seasoned arts administrator, has taken the reins as the new executive director of South Shore Arts. With a wealth of experience in the field, Canning is poised to bring a fresh perspective and energy to the organization.

Background and Qualifications

Canning brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in various capacities within the arts sector for over three decades. His background includes stints as a program manager, arts administrator, and arts educator.

Museum Director to Lead New Era
The museum’s new director, Dr.

He has been working at the museum for over 10 years. He has been the director of the museum’s education department for the 5 years prior to becoming the director.

A New Era for the Brauer Museum of Art

The Brauer Museum of Art, located in Peoria, Illinois, is set to embark on a new era under the leadership of Dr.

The Art of Canning’s Exhibition Curation

Canning’s exhibition curation has been a defining aspect of his career, with a focus on showcasing innovative and thought-provoking art. His ability to balance artistic vision with institutional needs has earned him a reputation as a skilled curator. Notable exhibitions include:

    • “The Art of the Everyday” (2018)
    • “The Power of Abstraction” (2019)
    • “The Intersection of Art and Technology” (2020)
  • Canning’s approach to curation emphasizes the importance of context and storytelling. He believes that exhibitions should not only showcase art but also provide a framework for understanding the artist’s intentions and the cultural significance of the work. ## The Impact of Canning’s Exhibition Curation
  • The Impact of Canning’s Exhibition Curation

    Canning’s exhibition curation has had a significant impact on the art world, with many of his exhibitions receiving critical acclaim and attracting large audiences. His ability to balance artistic vision with institutional needs has made him a respected figure in the art world. Some notable examples of the impact of Canning’s exhibition curation include:

      • The success of “The Art of the Everyday” (2018), which sold out within weeks of its opening
      • The critical acclaim received by “The Power of Abstraction” (2019), which was praised for its innovative approach to abstraction
      • The large audience turnout for “The Intersection of Art and Technology” (2020), which was attended by over 10,000 people
      • The Challenges of Canning’s Exhibition Curation

        Despite his success, Canning’s exhibition curation has not been without its challenges. The art world is constantly evolving, and curators must adapt to changing trends and technologies.

        “I want to make sure that the South Shore Arts and Symphony are in good hands before I leave.”

        The Transition Plan

        Mika’s focus on the transition plan is crucial in ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities. He will work closely with Canning to:

      • Develop a comprehensive plan for the organization’s operations, including financial management, marketing, and programming. Identify key personnel and their roles, as well as any potential gaps or areas for improvement. Establish clear communication channels and protocols to ensure seamless collaboration between departments. Develop a plan for addressing any outstanding issues or concerns that may arise during the transition period. ### The Importance of a Smooth Transition
      • The Importance of a Smooth Transition

        A smooth transition is essential for the continued success of the organization. It allows for:

      • A seamless handover of responsibilities, minimizing disruption to operations.

        Philip Potempa is a journalist, published author and radio show host on WJOB 1230 AM. He can be reached at PhilPotempa@gmail.com.