When Dr. Alex Rich announced plans to step down as the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art’s executive director last month, the search began for its next leader. Before a permanent replacement is found, Dr. Daryl Ward of Lakeland has been tapped to guide the museum.
Ward is no stranger to the local arts scene. He’s the executive director of the Polk Arts & Cultural Alliance, an arts educator, and a photographer who recently earned a merit award at Mayfaire by-the-Lake.
Before Ward becomes the museum’s interim executive director on Thursday, June 26, there are still a few events where you can glean art insights from Rich:
- Visit the museum after hours from 4 to 8 p.m. during AGB Thursday on June 26.
- Enjoy one final Drinks with the Director event — due to popular demand, another night was added on Friday, June 27 at 6 p.m. RSVP is required.
Rich leaves Lakeland to become president + CEO of the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston, SC. A national search for his successor will launch this summer.
