As Douglas Druick prepares to pass the baton to his suitable replacement, we’d like to take pause and thank him for his 31 years of service to this amazing institution. Initially joining the Art Institute of Chicago as a curator in 1984, Mr. Druick was appointed director and president of the museum in 2011. For the past 4 years, Mr. Druick oversaw a large number of prominent exhibitions and was instrumental in facilitating the largest art donation in the museum’s history. The 42 contemporary works of art from Stefan Edlis and Gael Neeson helped cement the museum’s due place among the world’s top museums. Under Druick’s leadership, the Art Institute of Chicago was named as “top museum in the world” by Trip Advisor.
To quote, “I have been deeply proud to lead one of the finest museums in the world,” said Druick, “and to work for three decades with exceptional cadre of remarkably talented museum colleagues.” (The Chicago Tribune)
Speaking for many from our hometown, thank you Mr. Druick for countless years of service and for your ambitious and vastly successful vision. Your leadership was indeed, unequivocal!
Image courtesy of: Art Net News
Druick understood that you must also cater to the “non die-hard art lovers” as they account for roughly 80% of the museum’s annual visitors. He brought technology into the museum and Institute increased the museum’s reach with innovative marketing.
Image courtesy of: Chicago Magazine
Image courtesy of: The Art Institute of Chicago
