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Meet the Artspace Team: Board Chair Matt Maleska


In 2016, we are debuting a monthly feature to take you behind the scenes to meet the team that brings you Artspace. Each month we’ll be speaking with one of the members of our staff, board and artists serving on the curatorial advisory board. We kick off here to introduce you to Matt Maleska, who is beginning his term as Board Chair.

What drew you to get involved in the arts in New Haven?

I got to excited about the New Haven arts scene through City Wide Open Studios. I loved the energy and scale of the events, especially at Erector Square. It was something I knew I wanted to be a part of in some way. Being a board member at Artspace has been a great way of getting involved.

You’ve been on the board of Artspace for 4 years. What has been the best part? What project has given you most satisfaction?

I’ve had the pleasure of working on Artspace’s spring gala for the past few years. As the organization’s most important fundraiser, it requires a lot of planning and coordination. But there is nothing more rewarding to see New Haven’s artists and broader audience come together that night. It is a great reminder of the role that Artspace plays in the community.

You’ve just come from one of our openings and you and your family are hungry—where do you go?

That’s easy. My daughters love Shake Shack.  We head there for dinner after openings. It is hard to beat a night of great art and chocolate milkshakes.

What has surprised you the most about Artspace?

I’m continually amazed at the ambition of the organization, as well as the skill and professionalism of the staff—who are so committed to its mission. The biggest surprise for me has been the transformation of the Goffe Street Armory.  It is a terrific example of the positive impact Artspace can have on a place.

What is something that a first time visitor to Artspace would say that would make you very happy?

Artspace tries so hard to both highlight local artists and to put on thoughtfully curated and intellectually challenging world class shows. I’d hope a visitor would be able to see that, and remark on the quality of the show and to see New Haven a bit differently as a result.