The Board of Trustees at the Butler Institute of American Art has appointed Larry Jones as the museum's interim director. In this role, Jones will collaborate closely with the Board of Trustees to prioritize and expedite the search for a permanent director while overseeing the museum's daily operations.
Jones brings a wealth of experience from the entertainment industry to his new position. He previously served on the museum's Board of Trustees for several years and has an extensive background in television production. As the former president of Nick at Nite and TV Land, Jones demonstrated strong leadership in the entertainment sector. Additionally, he has executive-produced more than 500 television sitcom episodes, including the popular series "Hot in Cleveland."
According to a press release, Jones possesses extensive expertise in corporate management, marketing and branding, and business finance, which will be valuable assets in his interim role. His professional background positions him well to guide the museum during this transitional period.
Beyond his corporate experience, Jones is an avid collector of American art, bringing personal passion to his professional duties. He has previously loaned pieces from his personal collection to prestigious institutions including the Tate and Crystal Bridges museums. His artworks are currently on display at several renowned museums across the country, including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Walker Art Center, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Dr. Lou Zona will continue serving the museum as Director Emeritus during this transition period. Zona will provide support to ensure a smooth transition for Jones and offer guidance to the Board of Trustees' Search Committee as they work to identify the museum's next permanent leader. This arrangement ensures institutional continuity while the search for a permanent director proceeds.
