When I arrived in Phoenix from Chicago over two decades ago, one of my first stops was the Phoenix Art Museum. Coming from a city steeped in the arts, I was eager to see what Phoenix had to offer. Fast forward to today, and I find myself standing within the hallowed halls of this very museum—a museum that has now entrusted its future to Jeremy Mikolajczak, the newly appointed Sybil Harrington Director and CEO.
It was an incredible honor to photograph Mikolajczak for ImagesAZ Magazine’s latest editorial. Capturing his portrait amidst some of the most remarkable works of art in Arizona amplified the gravity of this historic moment for the Phoenix Art Museum and the artistic community it serves. Here’s why his leadership promises to redefine art in Phoenix.
Who is Jeremy Mikolajczak?
Selected after a national search, Mikolajczak comes to Phoenix Art Museum with a stellar reputation and significant experience. Previously the Director and CEO of the Tucson Museum of Art, his tenure there was marked by tremendous growth, including a standout capital campaign to expand facilities. Under his leadership, Tucson Museum of Art made headlines for its commitment to community engagement and education, with projects like the Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art showcasing a dedication to multicultural representation.
But his credentials don’t stop there. Mikolajczak also led the Miami-Dade College Museum of Art + Design, where he established landmark exhibitions and initiatives with cultural resonance, like the Cuban Exile Experience. His career arcs across two decades, bringing with it a wealth of expertise in curation, scholarship, and leadership. Now, Phoenix stands to gain from his forward-thinking approach, which blends traditional artistry with a contemporary understanding of inclusivity and innovation.
A Turning Point for the Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum is renowned as the largest art institution in the Southwestern United States, but with Mikolajczak at the helm, its impact is poised to grow even further. His vision aligns perfectly with the vibrancy of Phoenix—a city experiencing monumental growth and cultural evolution.
Walking through the museum’s corridors during the photography session, it struck me how this space is more than just a house for art—it’s a dynamic canvas for expression and community connection. From modern installations to timeless historic collections, every piece tells a story, and Jeremy’s leadership is set to bring these stories to the forefront in new and exciting ways. His emphasis on community engagement and education will undoubtedly resonate with audiences, not just locally, but regionally and nationally.
Photographing Vision Amidst Art
Photographing Jeremy Mikolajczak was an unforgettable experience. The Phoenix Art Museum offered a stunning backdrop, and capturing him surrounded by such compelling works of art was symbolic of his new role. Each shot was designed to reflect both the weight of his leadership and the creative possibilities that lie ahead. From standing beside an intricate piece of modern art to walking through the halls of historical masterworks, the photographs convey a leader deeply connected to his artistic environment.
This wasn’t just a portrait session—it was an homage to the interplay between leadership and creativity. Everything about the museum, from its lighting to its architecture, speaks to its mission of inspiring imaginations. It’s clear that Mikolajczak’s tenure will honor and amplify this mission.
Looking to the Future
Jeremy Mikolajczak’s leadership represents a new chapter in the Phoenix Art Museum’s history—one filled with promise, innovation, and connection. Whether you’re a longtime patron or visiting for the first time, the museum is entering an era that truly calls for involvement and support.
From my perspective, having witnessed both the museum’s artistic energy and its new leader’s drive for excellence, I believe that the Phoenix Art Museum is poised for exponential growth. We are lucky to have someone as enthusiastic and visionary as Mikolajczak guiding it into the future.
Make your next visit a priority—you’re not just stepping into a museum; you’re stepping into the heart of Phoenix’s growing cultural renaissance.
