I am delighted to announce that Chelsea Farrar has been appointed Director of the University of Arizona Museum of Art, effective February 16, 2026.
Chelsea is an accomplished arts leader whose extensive experience, institutional knowledge, and deep ties to both the University and the broader community make her exceptionally well suited for this role. Chelsea, a proud alum of the University of Arizona School of Art, brings a clear understanding of UAMA’s significance as a resource for interdisciplinary teaching, student engagement, and research. Her background will further strengthen the connections between the Museum and the School of Art.
During her four-month tenure as Interim Director, Chelsea demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision. She successfully secured multiple gifts totaling over $500,000 in new philanthropic support for the Museum. Her ability to build authentic, clear, and caring relationships with donors shows her operational fluency and readiness to guide the Museum at scale.
Under Chelsea’s direction, UAMA reopened to the public on January 17 with a transformative policy change: free admission for all. This new approach reinforces UAMA’s commitment to accessibility and public service. While campus visitors have long enjoyed free entry, extending this privilege to the wider community removes financial barriers and ensures that UAMA can inspire, educate, and connect people from diverse backgrounds. This shift strengthens the Museum’s role in the vibrant cultural landscape of Tucson and Southern Arizona, aligning closely with the University’s land-grant mission.
Chelsea’s leadership is characterized by integrity, collaboration, and a genuine care for people. She has earned the full endorsement of the UAMA staff and has fostered trust across teams through mentorship, accountability, and a thoughtful, steady approach to decision-making. Her clear vision for UAMA’s future builds upon existing strengths, positioning the Museum for long-term growth and impact.
I extend my sincere thanks to the search committee, led by Todd J. Tubutis, Director of the Center for Creative Photography, for their careful and dedicated work. Their unanimous recommendation speaks powerfully to Chelsea’s readiness to lead UAMA into an exciting new chapter.
Please join me in congratulating Chelsea on her permanent appointment. We look forward to the continued success of the University of Arizona Museum of Art under her inspiring leadership.
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