The Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) has appointed Brian Ferriso as its new Eugene McDermott Director, with his leadership beginning December 1, 2025. Ferriso brings nearly two decades of experience from the Portland Art Museum, where he led a transformative $140 million campus revitalization. His expertise will be pivotal as DMA embarks on a significant museum expansion designed by Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos to enhance its physical space and deepen connections with the Dallas Arts District.
At the Portland Art Museum, Ferriso emphasized broadening accessibility and diversifying collections, overseeing the creation of an Assistant Curator of Native American Art and the establishment of a Native American Advisory Committee. These steps illustrate his commitment to presenting a richer range of voices, a commitment that aligns directly with DMA’s focus on increasing diversity in museum collections and enhancing community engagement.
Ferriso’s leadership extends beyond curatorial vision; he successfully expanded the Portland museum’s endowment by $40 million and championed the Art Access Endowment, which guarantees free admission for children and teens, along with free school tours. This reflects a philosophy of inclusivity that positions museums as vital public spaces for all visitors. At DMA, Ferriso aims to continue this approach by making the museum more welcoming to Dallas’s diverse population.
The upcoming renovation at DMA is a major part of Ferriso’s mandate. Designed by the Spanish architectural firm Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos, the project will harmonize the museum’s renowned Edward Larrabee Barnes-designed structure with new galleries and public spaces intended to expand visitor experiences. This transformation will strengthen DMA’s role as an anchor institution within the dynamic cultural fabric of Dallas.
Ferriso’s appointment follows a distinguished career, including leadership roles at the Philbrook Museum of Art and Milwaukee Art Museum. His art historical background, combined with skills in fundraising and strategic growth, equips him to guide DMA through this period of renewal and expansion smoothly.
As DMA prepares for this ambitious future, Ferriso’s vision emphasizes collaboration with local communities, stakeholders, and cultural partners to shape an institution that reflects and serves Dallas’s evolving artistic landscape. The museum, which boasts a collection of over 25,000 works spanning 5,000 years, will continue to operate as an Open Access museum providing free general admission.
Keywords and Anchor Links in Context:
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Brian Ferriso’s role will focus heavily on the museum’s expansion plans, aiming to reshape the visitor experience within the Dallas Arts District cultural hub.
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His efforts to diversify and enrich museum collections align with broader institutional goals for equity and representation.
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The architectural transformation helmed by Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos will provide modern gallery spaces while respecting DMA’s iconic design heritage.
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Ferriso’s prior success at the Portland Art Museum demonstrates his capacity to manage large-scale capital campaigns and philanthropic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: What experience does Brian Ferriso bring to the Dallas Museum of Art?
Ferriso has extensive leadership experience, notably directing the Portland Art Museum through a $140 million expansion and prioritizing inclusive programming and collections.
Q2: What are the main goals for DMA under Ferriso’s leadership?
Key goals include leading the museum’s major expansion project, enhancing public engagement, diversifying collections, and fostering inclusivity to better reflect Dallas’s community.
Q3: Who is the architect of the Dallas Museum of Art’s expansion?
The renovation will be carried out by Nieto Sobejano Arquitectos, a Spanish firm known for sensitive interventions in cultural institutions.
Q4: How has Ferriso contributed to diversity in museums before?
He implemented new curatorial positions focusing on Native American art, formed advisory committees for underrepresented groups, and ensured access through free admission programs.
Q5: Will the Dallas Museum of Art remain free to the public?
Yes, the DMA continues its policy of free general admission, supporting broad access to its significant collections and exhibitions.
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