The Center for Maine Contemporary Art announces Robert Wolterstorff as new executive director

The Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert Wolterstorff as the museum’s new executive director. Wolterstorff officially assumed his role on July 22, bringing a wealth of experience in museum leadership to CMCA. As executive director, Wolterstorff will spearhead organizational direction, fundraising initiatives, community engagement and exhibition planning and programming.

Jonathan Chodosh, interim chair of CMCA’s board of trustees, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, stating, “I am delighted to introduce Robert as our new leader, propelling CMCA into an exciting new chapter. With a proven commitment to fostering creativity and a strong history of promoting institutional excellence, Robert is a perfect match for CMCA. His vision and expertise offer a unique opportunity to deeply impact and engage with our community, cementing CMCA’s position as a leading contemporary arts organization in Maine.”

“It is with great pride and anticipation that I assume the role of executive director at CMCA, as we embark together on a journey to shape the future of this innovative and captivating museum,” expressed Wolterstorff. “Returning to Maine holds a special significance for me, having frequented the Mid-Coast region for more than three decades. Witnessing CMCA’s evolution from its days in Rockport to its relocation to Rockland and the unveiling of its stunning new building, has been truly inspiring to me. The museum’s rebranding to reflect its commitment to showcasing contemporary art from across the state is a testament to its progressive vision. I’m eager to collaborate with the dedicated team of staff and volunteers, as we continue to uphold CMCA’s legacy of championing and honoring Maine’s talented artists.”

Following a national search conducted by Arts Consulting Group, Wolterstorff joins CMCA from the Bruce Museum in Greenwich, Connecticut, where he served as The Susan E. Lynch Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer from 2019 to 2024. During his tenure, Wolterstorff successfully led the completion of the $68 million New Bruce Capital Campaign and the construction of the New Bruce building, a transformative expansion that opened in April 2023. Prior to his role at the Bruce Museum, Wolterstorff served as the Executive Director of the Bennington Museum in Vermont (2012-2019), overseeing significant curatorial enhancements and infrastructure improvements. His career also includes serving as the Executive Director of Victoria Mansion in Portland, Maine (1998-2010).

With over 25 years of experience in arts and museum leadership, Wolterstorff has also held curatorial and research positions at prestigious institutions such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Clark Art Institute, and the Williams College Museum of Art. He has also contributed as a trustee of the New England Museum Association and the Williamstown Art Conservation Center. Wolterstorff holds a Master of Fine Arts and a PhD in art history from Princeton University, a master’s degree in art history from Williams College, and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Wolterstorff, with his deep appreciation for Maine’s rich artistic heritage, has recently relocated to Rockport, Maine, and is eager to contribute to CMCA’s continued success and growth.