Former Baltimore Museum of Art Director Dr. Doreen Bolger to Be Honored at 2026 Illuminator Awards for Transformative Cultural Leadership
Baltimore, MD – The Illuminator Awards are pleased to recognize Dr. Doreen Bolger, former director of the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA), for her visionary leadership and enduring contributions to the arts. Bolger served as director of the BMA from 1998 to 2015, redefining the museum’s artistic focus on modern art and placing greater emphasis on its world‑renowned collection. During her tenure she launched major traveling exhibitions and expanded educational programs, while also eliminating general admission fees to make the museum accessible to all. Under her leadership the museum underwent a $28 million renovation as part of its 100th‑anniversary celebration and experienced significant growth in attendance and funding.
The museum developed acclaimed exhibitions such as Joyce J. Scott: Kickin’ It with the Old Masters, Painted Prints, Work Ethic and Pissarro: Creating the Impressionist Landscape and added important works by artists including Henri Matisse, Joshua Johnson, Henry Ossawa Tanner, and Nick Cave.
“Doreen Bolger opened the doors of the BMA to everyone and championed contemporary artists long before it was fashionable,” said F. William Chickering, Board President. “Her inclusive vision and dedication to Baltimore’s creative community have inspired countless artists, curators and patrons.”
Bolger has remained active as an arts and nonprofit management consultant in Baltimore, working with institutions such as Maryland Art Place, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art and the Crow Museum of Asian Art, and serves on the board of Creative Alliance. She continues to fundraise, lecture and serve on boards while advocating for Baltimore’s vibrant arts ecosystem.
About Dr. Doreen Bolger
Dr. Bolger is an art historian and museum leader who served as director of the Baltimore Museum of Art for 17 years. She previously held curatorial and directorial positions at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Amon Carter Museum of American Art and the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. Bolger has taught at several universities, authored and edited numerous scholarly books and articles, and has received two honorary degrees and multiple awards for her contributions to the arts.Baltimore, MD – The 2026 Illuminator Awards will celebrate Johns Hopkins, executive director of Baltimore Heritage. The awards recognize his leadership in preserving Baltimore’s historic places and revitalizing its neighborhoods. Hopkins has directed the nonprofit since 2003. He has worked tirelessly to protect historic buildings. He tells the stories of the city’s diverse communities.
About the Illuminator Awards
This signature Peale event brings together artists, preservationists, cultural leaders, educators, donors, and neighbors. It is a celebration of Baltimore’s creativity and resilience. The Illuminator Awards benefit The Peale – Baltimore’s Community Museum, supporting arts education and historic preservation. Tickets are available online at the link below.
