Tacoma, Wash. The Museum of Glass: International Center for Contemporary Art announces the selection of John Timothy (Tim) Close as its director effective May 15, 2006. Close is currently executive director of the Boise Art Museum in Boise, Idaho, where he has worked since February 21, 2000.

According to George H. Weyerhaeuser, Jr., Chair of the Board of Trustees, “Tim Close has solid experience in museum leadership and his career has been one of steady growth and achievement. He is primed and ready for his next challenge—guiding this young Museum through its next stage of development. His expertise is contemporary art and he is deeply interested in contemporary glass. We are delighted to welcome him to our community!”

Mary D. Thomas, the trustee who has led the search for a new director over the last several months, noted his emphasis on artistic vision, long-range strategic planning, development and financial management. “Tim has transformed the Boise Art Museum, expanding its budget, its collection and its fundraising profile.” Prior to his tenure in Boise, Close was executive director of the Albany Museum of Art in Albany, Georgia for six years. He also served as executive director of the Arlington Arts Center in Arlington, Virginia, a contemporary art center that exhibits the work of regional artists and provides studio space. Thomas describes the new director as “a motivational leader who believes in teamwork with staff and collaboration with the community.”

Close is currently a panel reviewer for the Institute of Museum and Library Services and peer reviewer for the American Association of Museums Accreditation Committee. He is a member of the Association of Art Museum Directors. His artwork is included in the permanent collection of the Houston Art Museum and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. He holds a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) from Arizona State University and an MFA (Master of Fine Arts) from the California Institute of the Arts. He also received a certificate from the Museum Management Institute, J. Paul Getty Trust, Berkeley, California.

“This is an incredible opportunity to strategically lead the Museum into its important fifth year and beyond, expanding its operating platform onto the national and international stage.” stated Close. “I am especially attracted to the creative energy of the Museum—and of the community that recognizes the intrinsic power of art.”

As director, Close will oversee the continuing development of the Museum of Glass as it begins its fifth year of operation. Opened in July of 2002, the Museum has attracted 760,000 visitors to date, surpassing initial projections by a significant margin. It is particularly noted for its large Hot Shop Amphitheater, a glass studio where visitors watch artists working with molten glass, as well as its exhibitions and exceptionally innovative education programs. Close replaces Josi Callan, who left the Museum at the end of January after serving as director for six years.