Markus Gottschlich, Executive Director of the Warehouse Arts District Association since 2022, is leaving the organization at the end of July. The WADA board did not specify a reason for Gottschlich’s departure but noted that he “spearheaded a period of significant institutional growth and campus revitalization,” expanding its footprint and programming, as well as securing “critical” funding.
Leadership Changes
Chris Eaton, former director of the Sunscreen Film Festival, has been named Interim Executive Director. The WADA board also announced the departures of Manager of Events Rodolfo Troncoso and Director of Arts Education and Community Outreach Vicky Lang.
Gottschlich has been a staunch supporter of artists’ rights in St. Petersburg, advocating for increased integration and frequency of arts leaders in planning and budgeting decision-making processes. He emphasized the importance of creating and nurturing vibrant art spaces as the city expands, which can increase measurable standards such as walkability, profits in the surrounding hospitality and service industry venues, and the overall quality of life factors.
Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.
