ALBANY — The Albany Institute of History and Art has announced the appointment of Greene County native Kayla Carlsen as its new executive director.
“We are thrilled to announce the appointment of the Museum of Art’s new president,” Albany Institute President George R. Hurst III said in a statement. “As a Hudson Valley native and expert in American art, Mr. Carlsen understands Albany Institute’s history and importance to the region and is uniquely suited to capitalize on its potential for future growth and impact.”
According to a press release, Karlsen’s expertise in historical artworks is consistent with the Albany Institute of History and Art’s collection. Karlsen earned a bachelor’s degree in art history from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, and a master’s degree from Hunter College in New York City. He has also participated in selective programs and held internships and fellowships at Historic Deerfield in Massachusetts and Olana State Historic Site in Hudson.
Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, at the Albany Institute of History and Art, Washington Avenue in Albany.
Tyler A. McNeill
Karlsen’s experience in the arts has seen him hold senior positions at three of the world’s leading arts organizations, most recently as head of American art and senior vice president at Sotheby’s Museum of Art in New York City.
“With Kayla at the helm, the Albany Institute will be in the best hands. She is a generous leader and passionately committed mentor on behalf of her team and clients,” Scott Neichel, head of auctions, modern and contemporary art at Sotheby’s, said in a statement. “She is also a consummate expert in her field and has helped transform and globalize the auction market for American art.”
Karlsen will begin her new role on July 15. She is excited about the opportunity.
“I have long revered the Albany Art Museum as a cornerstone of the Capital Region, and after nearly two decades in the New York art world, I am thrilled to return to the region and lead this storied institution into a new chapter in its history,” Carlsen said in a statement. “I look forward to engaging with the museum’s longtime supporters, as well as new audiences and supporters who represent the museum’s next generation. … My goal is to honor tradition and protect our history while continuing to build on it as a foundation for the future.”
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