San Antonio Museum of Art Hires Kristopher Driggers as Associate Curator of Latin American Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) has appointed Kristopher Driggers as its new Associate Curator of Latin American Art. Driggers, a San Antonio native, will begin his new position on June 17, 2024, following a comprehensive international search.

A Local Talent with Rich Experience

Driggers is no stranger to the world of art curation, having amassed significant experience in his field. His journey has taken him from the Tucson Museum of Art, where he served as Associate Curator, back to his hometown. This role is especially meaningful for him, as it connects his professional life with his personal roots in San Antonio’s Mexican American community.

SAMA’s Commitment to Latin American Art

The museum’s Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for Latin American Art hosts an impressive collection that spans over 10,000 objects. This collection is a critical part of the museum’s foundation, showcasing art from the Americas before 1500, the viceregal period, and modern and contemporary eras. It also stands out globally for its repository of Latin American popular art.

Enriching the Connection Between Art and Community

Emily Ballew Neff, the Kelso Director at SAMA, expressed excitement about Driggers’ appointment, noting his deep passion for Latin American art and his potential to enhance the museum’s community engagement. Driggers himself is eager to develop connections between the museum’s collection and the local community, emphasizing the relevance of the art to the area’s diverse cultures.

A Look at Driggers’ Background and Achievements

Before joining SAMA, Driggers contributed significantly to the Tucson Museum of Art. His achievements include the first installation of the permanent collection in the new Kasser Family Wing and organizing several notable exhibitions. His academic involvement is also extensive, with lectureships at multiple universities and presentations at prestigious venues worldwide.

Driggers holds a PhD in Art History from the University of Chicago, where his dissertation won the Feitler Prize for Best Dissertation. He also holds degrees from the University of Chicago and Yale University and is fluent in Spanish, Yucatec Mayan, and Portuguese.

Anticipations for the Future

Jessica Powers, the Chief Curator at SAMA, lauded Driggers’ scholarly expertise and curatorial experience. She anticipates that his insights will lead to compelling narratives within the Latin American collection, deepening the connection between the audience and the artworks.

With such a rich background and a strong connection to his community, Driggers is poised to make a significant impact at the San Antonio Museum of Art. His leadership promises to guide the museum into an exciting new chapter, blending historical richness with contemporary relevance.