The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields has announced Le Monte G. Booker Sr. as its new president and CEO, following a series of controversies surrounding previous leadership. Booker, currently the chief financial officer of the Field Museum in Chicago, expressed his excitement about joining the institution and working with the community to further its mission of enriching lives through art and nature.
This appointment comes after the resignation of Colette Pierce Burnette, the first Black woman to lead Newfields, who left after just 15 months in the role. Burnette took over from Charles Venable, who departed amid backlash over a job listing that referenced its “traditional, core, white art audience”. The incident sparked outrage and a petition for Venable’s resignation, leading to renewed scrutiny of the museum’s mission and leadership.
Booker will be stepping into this role in late October 2024, tasked with steering Newfields past its tumultuous recent history and towards a more inclusive and welcoming future. The museum has faced criticism for its leadership practices and programming decisions, with priority given to blockbuster exhibitions and profit-making ventures.
With Booker at the helm, Newfields is hopeful for a new chapter of growth and positive change, aiming to rebuild trust with the community and uphold its commitment to providing exceptional art and nature experiences.
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