The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) has made a significant appointment, hiring Kevin Tervala as its Chief of Curatorial Affairs and Exhibitions. Tervala, a native of Baltimore, brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to Mia, having previously served as the Chief Curator at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA). His academic background in African studies from Harvard University adds a layer of depth to his curatorial expertise. Tervala's journey in the art world began at BMA, where he started as a curatorial fellow and later became the head of the department, curating exhibitions such as 'A Perfect Power: Motherhood and African Art' and 'Kuba: Fabric of an Empire'. His ability to secure last-minute exhibitions, like 'Amy Sherald: American Sublime', showcases his adaptability and influence in the art scene.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Tervala's appointment is his passion for storytelling and the global reach of Mia's collection. With a focus on art outside of Europe and the United States, Mia's encyclopaedic collection offers a diverse and cosmopolitan perspective. Tervala envisions leveraging partnerships with other institutions to bring larger and more exciting projects to Minneapolis and St. Paul, ensuring that great art from around the world finds its way to the Twin Cities. This approach is crucial in today's media landscape, where museums compete for visitors' attention.
Tervala's leadership style, as described by Mia's director and president, Katie Luber, is characterized by intellectual rigor, collaborative leadership, and a long-range vision. His understanding of balancing scholarship with audience engagement makes him an ideal fit for Mia. Tervala's first day at Mia is set for September 8th, and the anticipation is palpable as he prepares to bring his unique vision to the museum's collections and exhibitions, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.
