PRESS RELEASE

December 16, 2002

Contact Katie Sproles (541) 346-0942 ksproles@darkwing.uoregon.edu
or John R. Crosiar (541) 346-3135 jcrosiar@oregon.uoregon.edu

ARTS LEADER CHOSEN TO DIRECT MUSEUM OF ART

EUGENE-David G. Turner, selected this week to direct the University of Oregon Museum of Art (UOMA) after seven years directing the Colorado Springs (Colo.) Fine Arts Center, looks forward to leading the venerable arts facility into its next stage of growth and development.

The historic museum is at a critical juncture in its 70-year history, says Turner, who earned a UO master's degree in art history in 1974.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the UO museum is currently undergoing a $12.72 million renovation and expansion that will double its size. When it re-opens during winter 2004, the transformed building will offer new galleries, a research center and modernized display and storage conditions.

"Opportunities to clearly define its new self will be challenging and should lead to great rewards," he says. "Moving a museum forward is what I know how to do best. I relish the chance to help define the UOMA's future."

Turner will assume his new post April 14, according to Lorraine Davis, UO vice president for academic affairs.

Turner formerly directed the Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe, N.M., and the Amarillo (Texas) Arts Center. He has taught, lectured, written and curated exhibitions on the history of photography and 20th-century American art.

###