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Melanie Crader
Director, Exhibition and Publication Management
Professional Background
Melanie Crader is a highly accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in both the museum and financial services industries. With a remarkable skill set that combines expertise in budget management, project execution, and a passionate focus on the arts, Melanie has built a career that showcases her ability to connect with diverse audiences through innovative visual and performing arts experiences. Currently, Melanie serves as the Director of Exhibition and Publication Management at the prestigious Hammer Museum, where she is responsible for curating engaging exhibitions that resonate with visitors and foster cultural appreciation.
Her previous role as Budget and Project Manager at The Menil Collection demonstrated her adeptness at managing substantial budgets, with responsibilities that included overseeing fiscal planning and directing both staff and contractors. Throughout her time with The Menil Collection, she steadily progressed from a Curatorial Coordinator to Manager of Curatorial Projects, showcasing her dedication and strategic thinking within the arts sector. Melanie's strong project management skills have been coupled with her artistic sensibilities, allowing her to deliver compelling experiences that sustain audience interest and engagement.
Education and Achievements
Melanie's academic background is as diverse and multifaceted as her professional journey. She studied in the Banco Santander W30 Program at UCLA Anderson School of Management, where she gained insights into leadership and management best practices. Additionally, she earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) with a focus on Printmaking and Painting from Ohio University, honing her artistic talents that would complement her roles in curatorial positions.
Her journey in academia also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Fine and Studio Arts from McNeese State University, as well as specialized studies in Copyediting at UCLA Extension, enhancing her communication and editing skills which are invaluable in the world of arts management. Her educational experiences have provided her with a well-rounded foundation, enabling her to bridge the gap between artistic vision and operational execution.
Melanie has significantly contributed to the artistic landscape while also sharing her knowledge through teaching. As an adjunct faculty member at Houston Community College and an instructor at the Glassell School of Art, she has guided and inspired budding artists, sharing her rich tapestry of experiences in both leadership and creativity.
Achievements
Among her numerous achievements, Melanie's work at the Hammer Museum stands out as a testament to her significant impact on the arts community. By spearheading projects that showcase diverse artistic voices and encourage community engagement, she has received praise for transforming visions into reality. During her time at The Menil Collection, she played a critical role in executing exhibitions and managing projects that attracted wide acclaim and brought fresh perspectives to established art narratives.
With professional experience that also spans the finance sector as a Senior Communications Coordinator at Invesco Ltd., Melanie has perfected her communication strategies, allowing her to articulate the importance of arts within various communities and institutional frameworks. Through her commitment to the arts, combined with her practical experience in managing large-scale budgets, Melanie Crader continues to redefine what is possible in museum and arts administration, making her a celebrated figure in the field.
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