The City of Seattle is seeking an innovative leader reflecting Seattle’s storied history of arts excellence. The search will center community and creative voices. The search committee will feature prominent Seattle arts leaders.
Today, Mayor Bruce Harrell announced the City of Seattle will begin a nationwide search for the next permanent director of the City’s Office of Arts & Culture. To help guide a rigorous selection process, the mayor has appointed a committee representing a broad array of prominent Seattle arts leaders and stakeholders.
“Arts allow us to share feelings, values, and experiences across communities and shape the unique social character of our neighborhoods,” said Mary Bruce Harrell. “Seattle has always been a hub for creatives and visionaries, and we need to continue to support and develop our world-class arts scene. The next permanent Office of Arts & Culture director must further strengthen our creative landscape – convening artists across mediums, expanding public arts, supporting a next generation of artists, and, most importantly, creating a culture in Seattle where arts are ever present in every community. I want to express my sincere gratitude to Interim Director royal alley-barnes for her work leading this office and her efforts to help our arts sector recover from the impacts of the pandemic.”
Throughout the spring, the committee will identify applicants, interview candidates, and recommend at least three finalists for the mayor. The position opened on March 9, 2023, and applications received by 4:00 p.m. on April 11, 2023 will receive first consideration. Apply now.