Meet Christina An, New Art Center’s New Executive Director

Dear New Art Community,

As the New Art Center approaches its 50th year, we’re thrilled to welcome Christina An, PhD, as our next Executive Director.

This is a meaningful moment for New Art. A moment to reflect on what this place has meant to so many, and to look ahead with intention toward what it can become.

For nearly five decades, New Art has been a space where creativity is accessible, where community takes shape, and where people of all ages find connection through making. Christina understands the importance of that kind of space, not just as an arts leader, but as an educator, scholar, and community builder who has spent her career opening doors for others.

Her path began in the classroom, teaching 3rd and 4th grades through Teach For America, and has since spanned museums, higher education, and nonprofit leadership. Most recently, she served as Assistant Director for Education & Engagement at the Cantor Art Gallery, and she has held roles at the Boston University Art Galleries and Department of History of Art and Architecture, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and Newton Public Schools, where she currently serves as District Chair for Creative Arts and Sciences. She also brings the perspective of having served on New Art’s Board of Governors, grounded in a deep understanding of our community and mission.

While Christina brings her doctorate in art history and a love of 17th-century Dutch painting to New Art, she believes art is at its best when it is lived, shared, and accessible to everyone, not simply admired from afar.

Across all her work, a throughline is clear: a belief that art matters, and that creative spaces become stronger when more people see themselves reflected in them.

Christina brings both thoughtfulness and momentum to this role. She joins New Art at a time when the organization is looking toward its next chapter, with a focus on strengthening its foundation while continuing to expand its impact in the community.

In her own words:

“Newton is my community, and there’s so much here to celebrate. Places like New Art create opportunities for people not only to learn, but also to connect, experiment, and discover new aspects of themselves. There’s something very special here, and I’m excited to work alongside you all to build what comes next.”

Please join us in welcoming Christina!