Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art appoints new curator, contemporary art

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art appointed Lauren Haynes as curator, contemporary art. She will join the museum staff in October as a member of the curatorial team.

In her new role, Haynes will contribute to all activities related to the contemporary art program including exhibitions, collection development and presentation, and publications as well as community partnerships, public programs and donor stewardship.

“We are delighted to welcome Lauren to the Museum this fall,” said Crystal Bridges Director of Curatorial Affairs Margi Conrads. “She brings an acute eye and extensive experience, a hallmark of which has been innovative presentations and working with artists and collectors. Her passion and collaborative spirit will play an important role in connecting visitors to contemporary art at Crystal Bridges. Her unique experience will also complement efforts at our new arts venue, particularly her expertise in building artists-in-residence programs.”

Haynes comes to Crystal Bridges from The Studio Museum in Harlem where, since 2006, she has served in several roles, most recently associate curator, permanent collection, overseeing the care and collection of the permanent collection as well as acquisitions and exhibitions. She is a specialist in African American modern and contemporary art, and has curated numerous exhibitions in her career.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Crystal Bridges team. I have closely watched all of the work being done there since the Museum’s founding and I look forward to helping grow the contemporary art program,” said Haynes. “Crystal Bridges and the Studio Museum share a commitment to bringing innovative and challenging artworks and exhibitions to broad and diverse audiences. I can’t wait to bring the perspective I’ve developed over the past ten years to Crystal Bridges and the Northwest Arkansas community.”

She holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from Oberlin College.