Maine Arts Commission Appoints Bob Keyes as New Chair

AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Arts Commission proudly announces the appointment of Bob Keyes as its new Chair, succeeding David Hopkins of North Haven. Keyes, a Maine-based and nationally-recognized arts writer and storyteller, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the arts to his new role.

Bob Keyes has spent more than 20 years writing about arts and culture for Colby College and the Portland Press Herald and Maine Sunday Telegram. His specialties in American visual arts and the contemporary culture of New England have garnered him widespread recognition and numerous awards. Keyes' dedication to the arts has been evident throughout his career, from his early beginnings launching a neighborhood newsletter to his appointment as editorial director at Colby College in 2022.

Reflecting on his appointment, Keyes stated, "It’s an honor to serve as Chair of the Maine Arts Commission. These are urgent times in all ways, and we need artists to help make sense of it all, to sort and process the tension and chaos, and to show us a path of hope."

Keyes joins the commission during a time of transition and opportunity. With the recent adoption of a strategic plan emphasizing collaboration and proactive initiatives, Keyes aims to lead the commission towards greater engagement with Maine's diverse arts community and increased support for arts funding.

Keyes also highlighted the commission's current efforts to hire a new executive director and increase representation from Maine residents. "We need more voices, and we need to elevate the voices of those who are underrepresented," he emphasized.

Keyes also expressed his belief in the transformative power of the arts: "I believe in the power of the arts to celebrate community, create economy, and improve lives."

The Maine Arts Commission looks forward to Keyes' leadership and invites all stakeholders to join in the journey to advance the arts in Maine.

The Maine Arts Commission fosters and encourages public interest and participation in the cultural heritage and artistic expression in our state. We pursue our mission through partnerships and collaborations, initiatives, advocacy, and grants for organizations, individual artists, communities, and schools throughout Maine.