The Nelson Museum Archives and Gallery’s executive director has announced her departure after seven years.
Astrid Heyerdahl shared the news of her resignation in a note circulated to museum members stating her last day will be on Nov. 7.
Her departure was accepted with sadness, stated Sheila Achilles, chair of the museum board in a media release.
“Astrid has been a passionate leader and an exceptional director of the museum for the last seven years,” Achilles said.
“She has pushed the exhibitions to national and international levels, has grown the archives, launched incredible programs such as New Echoes in the Staircase, ArtLab, and Community Cabinets, and created an atmosphere of positive growth.”
Throughout her tenure, Heyerdahl has been an advocate for truth and reconciliation, decolonization and social justice in the museum and gallery sector, Achilles said She’s developed strong relations with the region’s First Nations groups and has started redeveloping the museum space, which will proceed when her role is filled,” Achilles added
Nelson-Creston MLA Brittny Anderson was also saddened by the news of Heyerdahl’s resignation. In the release she expressed her appreciation for Heyerdahl’s work and dedication to preserving the city’s history in the community.
“Astrid is not just an award-winning curator, but also a brilliant collaborator who possesses immense passion for the arts, culture, and heritage,” said Anderson, who has worked closely with the museum leadership on multiple projects.
“Throughout her tenure, she has spearheaded remarkable transformations within our museum. We extend our best wishes to Astrid for her upcoming journey, and thank her for all that she has done for the museum and the community.”
As for her successor, the museum stated it plans to have the role filled before the new year. Applications are open until Oct. 10. Interested parties can find further details on the Nelson Museum Archives and Gallery’s website.
In her announcement sent out to museum members, Heyerdahl said she’s proud of her and her team’s accomplishments during her tenure.
“As I look back on all that we have accomplished in the last seven years – from opening the Cold War Bunker to the NMAG rebrand to doubling grant awards, and so much more – I am proud to have been a part of this incredible organization.”
Vista Radio reached out to the Heyerdahl and the museum board for further comment on her resignation but has not yet received a response.
