Arts & Entertainment

Bringing Modernity and Change to the Main Line Art Center

Amie Potsic is nearing a year as executive director of Main Line Art Center.

Last year, the Main Line Art Center in Haverford marked 75 years in existence. While celebrating its long past it also took a step into the future with the hiring of a new exective director.

In the summer professional photographer and arts administrator Amie Potsic succeed executive director Judy Herman, who retired after nearly 25 years there.

So far, Potsic has curated two shows that she said were "contemporary, challening and brought in new artists," Atmospheric and Urban Pop (see photos) and is overseeing a renovation and addition to the art center's building.

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While still offering more traditional exhibits, Potsic said she was brought into the organization for her artistic vision for exhibit programming in addition to her arts management and administration.

"We have a great history and reputation," she said, adding that she wants to create "wow factors" that the art center's visitors might not expect from them.

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As part of the renovation, the center's main entrance will bring visitors directly into the galleries as part of a strategy to strengthen the exhibit side of the organization.

Potsic, a Berwyn native, traveled extensively around the world as a photographer. But she has also taught and been an arts advocate, manager and curator. She said she brings the perspective of living and traveling elsewhere back to her home area.

She also brings strong ties to the Philadelphia arts community, as evidenced by her two curated collections.

"The board wanted to see change, but change that would work with the past," she said.

Potsic said the art center's mission is "art for everyone." And it's right here. "They don't have to go downtown" for art—whether it be traditional or modern.


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