Leah Harrington, Director of Exhibitions and Contemporary Curatorial Initiatives
Professional Overview
Leah Harrington is an accomplished arts and culture professional with extensive experience in exhibition curation, contemporary art programming, and arts administration. As the Director of Exhibitions and Contemporary Curatorial Initiatives at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, she leverages her deep industry expertise to drive impactful exhibitions and innovative curatorial initiatives that engage diverse audiences and elevate the visibility of emerging and established artists.
Experience Summary
Current Role
In her current role as the Director of Exhibitions and Contemporary Curatorial Initiatives at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Leah is responsible for curating and overseeing the institution's dynamic exhibition program, which showcases cutting-edge contemporary art. She collaborates closely with the curatorial team to develop thought-provoking exhibitions that foster meaningful dialogue and celebrate the work of both emerging and established artists. Under her leadership, the Academy has gained recognition for its prestigious and influential contemporary art programming.
Career Progression
Prior to her current position, Leah held several key roles in the arts and culture sector, including serving as a Curator at Now and There Inc., where she curated acclaimed exhibitions that explored timely social and cultural themes. She also held senior editorial positions at respected arts publications, The Rib and Big Red & Shiny, where she honed her skills in arts criticism, writing, and editorial leadership. Leah's diverse background and extensive industry experience have enabled her to make significant contributions to the field, positioning her as a respected voice and innovative leader in the contemporary art world.
Academic Background
Leah holds a Master of Arts in Modern Art, Connoisseurship and the History of the Art Market from Christie's Education, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in English and Art History from the University of Mary Washington. Her academic training has provided her with a deep understanding of art history, art market trends, and contemporary curatorial practices, which she leverages to deliver exceptional exhibitions and programming.
Areas of Expertise
- Curatorial and exhibition development
- Contemporary art programming and initiatives
- Arts administration and leadership
- Arts writing, criticism, and editorial management
- Collaboration with artists, institutions, and stakeholders
- Fostering community engagement and audience development
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Leah has curated acclaimed exhibitions that have received critical acclaim and garnered national attention. Her curatorial vision has been instrumental in elevating the profiles of emerging artists and sparking meaningful dialogue around pressing social and cultural issues. As a respected industry leader, Leah's contributions have been recognized by her peers, and she continues to drive innovation and excellence in the contemporary art field.
Conclusion
Leah Harrington's extensive experience, academic credentials, and demonstrated expertise in contemporary art curation and programming position her as a highly valued leader in the arts and culture sector. Her commitment to excellence, collaborative approach, and passion for engaging diverse audiences make her a valuable asset to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the broader arts community.
