BOULDER, CO.- The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMoCA), a presenter and producer of innovative visual and performing arts, has announced that Joan Markowitz and Penny Barnow will be the new Co-Executive Directors of the museum's programming and operations. They will replace previous Executive Director, Ken Bloom, who left to serve as the Director of the Tweed Museum of Art at the University of Minnesota in Duluth last fall. Brandi Mathis will continue to serve as the museum's Artistic Director.

Markowitz and Barnow bring blended talents and expertise that are important for the growth and expansion of BMoCA as they share the leadership role for the museum's programs and activities. "We felt that their knowledge, commitment and combined synergies afforded a strong combination of capabilities that were hard to match with any single candidate," said Vern Seieroe, President of BMoCA's Board of Directors. "It is the perfect combination of programming experience, community support, regional and national contacts, and operational expertise for BMoCA to continue to be a vital and expansive institution."

As Co-Executive Director/Senior Visual Curator, Markowitz will be responsible for curation and oversight of exhibitions and related programming.

A long-time Boulder resident, Markowitz has extensive experience in the art world and in the community. She was the founder of Mac/Laren Markowitz Gallery and then went on to launch her own independent art consultation business. After receiving a Master's Degree in art history at the University of Colorado, she became the art curator and project director of Women of the West Museum in Denver.

Markowitz admits to having a vested interest in the success of BMoCA. "I think the time is right for BMoCA to distinguish itself as an important regional venue. I look forward to bringing my experience, enthusiasm and contacts in the art world to this exciting venture."

As the Co-Executive Director/Senior Administrator, Barnow will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of BMoCA, including overseeing its financial operations, government and community relations, fund-raising development, human resources management, and acting as the Board and Committee facilitator. Barnow brings a strong management background in the non-profit sector, including past positions as the regional Executive Director for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, national Director of Major Gifts for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the Event Director in the development office for the Denver Museum of Art.

"Raising awareness and recognition of BMoCA will be an instrumental part of the mission going forward," said Barnow. "The museum serves as an integral and intriguing part of this community. Joan and I aspire to re-shape many of the visions and partnerships, as well as expand the performance and visual exhibitions, to host significant events and to create new programs for community enrichment."