Professor of art named new director of McDonough Museum of Art
June 25, 2020
Professor of art Claudia Berlinski, who has been a faculty member in the Department of Art for over 20 years, has been appointed as the new director of the John J. McDonough Museum of Art.
Berlinski, having most recently served as the McDonough’s museum coordinator, will shift from her faculty position to the full-time directorship.
Berlinski is a native of Buffalo, New York, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in printmaking from Buffalo State College. She went on to receive a Master of Fine Arts in printmaking at The Ohio State University.
In addition to her tenure as a faculty member, Berlinski has also served within the Department of Art as foundations program coordinator and assistant to the chair. She has exhibited her work nationally and regionally, contributes to print portfolio exchanges, and curates and adjudicates group exhibitions. Her work is included in several private and public collections nationwide. Berlinski also previously curated the Thomases Family Endowment Gallery at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Youngstown.
“Claudia brings a strong visual arts background as a practicing artist, outstanding experience as a member of the art faculty, robust curatorial awareness, and a solid appreciation of the unique relationship between the McDonough Museum and the Department of Art,” Cliffe College of Creative Arts dean Phyllis Paul said. “Claudia has also been integral to furthering the museum’s collaborations with our community, including The Butler Institute of American Art, area school art educators, and numerous other regional arts and cultural partners.”
As director, Berlinski’s primary responsibility is the management of the operational and programmatic functions of the museum, including the development of university-related educational and public programs, promotional activities, and community outreach. She will continue to share responsibility with the Department of Art chairperson and faculty to determine all academic, curatorial, programmatic, and strategic objectives.
"It is an honor and a privilege to be appointed to the position of museum director at the McDonough Museum of Art. I welcome the opportunity to carry on the legacy of this invaluable institution by continuing to provide the highest quality programming and exhibitions,” Berlinski said. “Strengthening the museum's bond with the university community and the Mahoning Valley community is a priority, and we welcome everyone to find common ground through the arts.”