Mural Arts Philadelphia has named Emily Mello as its new executive director. Mello steps into the role previously held by Jane Golden, who led the organization for four decades and established Philadelphia as a major destination for public murals. Mello arrives with extensive experience in the arts, having held leadership positions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York, and the Pérez Art Museum Miami.
During her tenure in the art world, Mello focused on community engagement and accessible arts education. She views public murals as a direct extension of this work, noting that the medium serves as a way to connect with neighborhoods and facilitate public dialogue. Her approach to the new role involves listening to local artists, civic leaders, and community members before determining future directions for the organization. She emphasizes that she wants to learn what is currently effective within the city’s arts landscape rather than imposing external strategies.
Transitioning to life in Philadelphia, Mello plans to relocate to the city by September 1st. She is currently evaluating potential neighborhoods, including Fairmount, Spring Garden, and Center City. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she expressed interest in the city’s unique culture and sports scene, acknowledging the local passion for civic pride and community-driven social change. She joins the city accompanied by her Italian greyhound, Florizel, also known as Flo.
Mello’s appointment marks a transition for one of the nation's largest public art programs. Her background in institutional arts suggests a continued emphasis on blending contemporary art with community-based projects. The local arts community is watching to see how her prior experience in Chicago, New York, and Miami will influence her leadership style as she takes the helm of this established Philadelphia institution.