BRAHM
Blowing Rock Art & History Museum
James Pearson named Executive Director
Pearson is the Director of the Hand Art Center at Stetson University, Deland, Florida. Prior, he was the Director of the Southeast Museum of Photography in Daytona Beach, Florida. Throughout his career Pearson has developed exhibitions, artist residencies and related public programs, grown and managed large collections, and expanded outreach and community impact. Pearson also has experience in fundraising, donor relations, and grant writing and has taught courses in museum studies, collections management, and art appreciation.
Pearson has a M.A. degree in art criticism from Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY. He attended high school and college in North Carolina, holding a B.A. in studio Art and a minor in philosophy from the University of North Carolina, Asheville.
"We are thrilled to announce James’s appointment and look forward to his arrival in July," said Sandy Huff, Chair of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the Search Committee. "James brings over 10 years of experience leading museums, presenting exhibitions and building collections. He has just the right balance of art, education and leadership experience to move the Museum forward in its next chapter.”
“I am deeply honored to have been chosen for this important assignment,” stated Pearson. I have developed a professional philosophy that is mission focused and community centered. Over my years working at museums, I have come to value an art organization’s responsibility to engage its community on its terms. I look forward to joining the BRAHM team and getting to know the community and audiences we serve.”