CIRCLE LEVEL MEMBERSHIP

Circle level members enjoyed an exclusive behind the scenes look at American Moderns: 1910-1960 From O’Keeffe to Rockwell. The exhibition preview and dinner began with a reception in Joseph’s Coat, James Turrell’s Skyspace, and continued into the galleries for special insights by Dr. Matthew McLendon, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art. As guests headed to Treviso for dinner you could hear the lively discussion sparked by the artwork featured in the exhibit. The evening was capped off with an elegant four course dinner created by Treviso’s Chef Jeffrey Trefry.

We are looking forward to our next Circle Level dinner on October 2nd as we explore Icons of Style: Makers, Models and Image

Members at the Circle Levels are offered special insider events and opportunities to interact with featured collectors, artists and curators. When you choose to join at the Circle Levels, your membership provides vital ongoing philanthropic support to advance the museum’s mission. It is your investment in The Ringling. For more information please contact Sharon Freddes at 941-359-5821.

ANNA E. VON GEHR JOINS THE RINGLING AND FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION

Anna E. von Gehr has been appointed as the Senior Director of Development. Serving under Director, Steven High and Glen Jack, Vice President for Constituent Programs at the Florida State University Foundation, von Gehr will lead The Ringling fundraising office to enhance the scholarship, practice, and presentation of art and culture.

“With her experience in both museum and university fundraising and her deep appreciation for the arts, Anna brings to the position at The Ringling a unique background and extensive experience that will propel our development program forward,” said Steven High. “I’m thrilled that she has joined our staff and I look forward to working with her and her development team to attract even greater programs, exhibitions, and collections to our community.”

American Moderns: 1910-1960

From O’Keeffe to von Gehr comes to The Ringling from the University of Virginia where she served as Director of University Arts Development. Working in partnership with the Vice Provost for the Arts she managed the Arts Strategic Planning process while assisting all arts units in garnering transformative philanthropic support.

Prior to her work at UVA, von Gehr served as the Major Gifts and Planned Giving officer at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. She was an integral part of the museum’s senior leadership team overseeing the successful completion of their recent $172 million capital campaign.

“I am thrilled to be joining The Ringling team at such an exciting time. My passion for museums and the vital role they play in society drives both my professional and personal life,” says von Gehr.

Anna has recently made Sarasota her permanent home with her husband, artist Rob Tarbell, and two-year old daughter Dorothea.