The Erie Art Museum today announced that Executive Director Laura Domencic will leave her position, effective October 22. The Museum’s Board of Directors has named Jude Shingle, currently the Museum’s Communications Director, as Interim Director while the Board determines next steps for the Museum’s leadership.
Domencic served as Executive Director for five years, during which time the Museum presented well-regarded exhibitions of regional and national artists, restored in-person programming after the pandemic, and completed the renovation of the Customs House stairs.
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with the staff, the artists, and the community in growing the exhibitions and educational programming," said Domencic. "It has been a rewarding experience for me both professionally and personally.”
“On behalf of the Board, I thank Laura for her service to the Erie Art Museum and to this community,” said Angie McClimans, Board President. “We are grateful for her work and for the relationships she built with artists, staff, and partners. As the Museum looks ahead, the Board is committed to a steady, thoughtful transition and to the long-term strength of this institution.”
Shingle brings leadership and organizational experience to the interim role. He joined the Museum as Communications Director and has worked across marketing, programming, and development. He previously served as Executive Director of the Erie Center for Arts & Technology (ECAT).
“I’m honored by the Board’s trust and grateful to Laura for her work on behalf of this Museum,” said Shingle. “The Erie Art Museum belongs to this community, and our job right now is to listen, to take a clear-eyed look at where we stand, and to make sure this institution is here for the artists and audiences who rely on it. I look forward to working with our staff, Board, and community in the weeks ahead.”
Exhibitions, programs, and events at the Museum will continue as scheduled.