Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq names new Director & CEO to define the museum's next era

WINNIPEG.- Following an extensive international search, the Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq announced the appointment of John Mahli Lawa' Hampton as Director & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective December 10.

As WAG-Qaumajuq’s Director & CEO, Hampton will lead the art museum’s finances, operations, and capital expansion projects while fostering a culture of creativity and innovation and advancing the strategic vision of Canada’s oldest civic art gallery, connecting art, culture, learning, and community, while being recognized internationally for its world-renowned collection of contemporary Inuit art.

Hampton will work with WAG-Qaumajuq’s Board of Governors to support sustainable growth and further the Gallery’s reputation as a model for the new museum in Canada, one that balances historical collections, contemporary art, Indigenization and reconciliation, and inclusive community learning. Hampton will strengthen collaborations with local and national partners and enrich visitor experiences, guided by WAG-Qaumajuq’s core values of equity, care, responsibility, and trust.

Before being appointed Director & CEO of WAG-Qaumajuq, Hampton served as Executive Director & CEO of the MacKenzie Art Gallery in Regina, a position they formally held since January 2021. They previously served as Executive Director of the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba in Brandon. A citizen of the Chickasaw Nation, they co-chaired the last two Canada Arts Summits, served on the Canada House Gallery Committee, were named to CBC’s Future 40, and authored Decolonizing Museum Management: Towards a Human Institution for the Manual of Museum Management. Hampton was appointed following an extensive national and international search process led by executive recruiting firm Arts Consulting Group (ACG).

The WAG-Qaumajuq Board of Governors also wishes to extend its sincere thanks to Bill Elliott for his leadership and guidance during his time as interim leader. The Board appreciates his contributions and commitment to the Gallery during this transition.

“The Board of Governors is excited to welcome John Mahli Lawa' Hampton to WAG Qaumajuq. I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing Hampton’s exceptional leadership on the national stage through their work co-chairing the Canadian Arts Summit, as well as their leadership at the MacKenzie Art Gallery. We look forward to building on our current momentum and vision to deepen audience connections while advancing the art museum’s world-renowned collections, exhibitions, and programs.” — Aynsley Cockshott, Chair, WAG-Qaumajuq Board of Governors

“I am humbled and honoured to be joining this incredible team and community. WAG Qaumajuq has played an incredible role in shaping the cultural identity of both the Plains and Canada. I have admired the authenticity and openness the institution has taken to its relations with Indigenous communities and all who call this territory home, and I have long been inspired by the exceptional artists and Winnipeg’s unique identity. I know WAG-Qaumajuq, and this region more broadly, has an important role to play in this current moment, so I am thrilled to be returning to Manitoba to support the role its artists and communities can play in making our world a better place to live.” — John Mahli Lawa' Hampton, Director & CEO, WAG-Qaumajuq