The Gibbes Museum of Art Names Elliott DeMerell as Director of Institutional Advancement

For Immediate Release, August 2008

The Gibbes Museum of Art is pleased to announce that Elliott DeMerell has been named Director of Institutional Advancement and will assume his new position at the Gibbes on September 15, 2008. Mr. DeMerell joins the Gibbes from the Children's Home Society and Family Services of Saint Paul, Minnesota where he served as Senior Development Officer. Prior to his position with the Children's Home Society, DeMerell worked in development positions with the St. Paul College of Visual Arts, the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, the Science Museum of Virginia and the South Carolina State Museum.

DeMerell is a native Charlestonian who was raised one block from the Gibbes above his family art gallery and frame shop. According to DeMerell, "I grew up taking art classes at the Gibbes and have always had a personal connection to the Gibbes and the local arts community. I'm delighted and excited to be able to bring my experience from several major museums around the country to further the Gibbes' mission of supporting the arts in Charleston."

"We are so pleased that Elliott was interested in returning home to Charleston with the goal of working at the Gibbes. He brings a vast knowledge of institutional development from some impressive institutions and we are looking forward to his contributions to the museum and the community," said Gibbes Executive Director Angela Mack.

Mr. DeMerell is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has been a member of the American Association of Museums since 1993.

GIBBES MUSEUM OF ART

Established as the Carolina Art Association in 1858 (celebrating 150 years in 2008), the Gibbes Museum of Art opened its doors to the public in 1905. Located in Charleston's historic district, the Gibbes houses a premier collection of over 10,000 works, principally American with a Charleston or Southern connection and presents special exhibitions throughout the year. In addition, the museum offers an extensive complement of public programming and educational outreach initiatives. As the aesthetic heart of the Lowcountry, the Gibbes serves the community by stimulating creative expression, increasing economic vitality through tourism, and improving the region's superb quality of life.