Art Base chief Skye Skinner to leave ‘big shoes’ after end of year exit
Courtesy Photo
After three years as executive director at The Art Base, Skye Skinner is stepping down at the end of 2022.
She has been a part of The Art Base since its beginnings 26 years ago. She started there as a fundraising consultant. When she took on the role of executive director, it was just before the pandemic.
“The reason I accepted the role was, I would say, one of necessity. It was a very challenging time when COVID struck. A lot of small businesses and nonprofits didn’t make it through that in this country. It was important for me to lean into that and make sure we got through that chapter successfully,” she said. “I just want this place to last forever.”
Courtesy of Olive and West Photography
Skinner helped The Art Base with the acquisition of the Three Bears Building in downtown Basalt. The new facility has allowed The Art Base to expand its educational and exhibition programming.
“I’ve really gotten a wonderful bird’s-eye view of the evolution of this awesome nonprofit for its whole life. I think that’s really added depth to my time here,” she said.
Board of Trustees member Tim Brown said Skinner’s vision, coordination and wisdom were crucial in the acquisition of the new building. Even throughout the pandemic, she was able to continue growing The Art Base programs and improving exhibitions.
“The Art Base board and community are filled with appreciation for everything Skye has accomplished in the past three years as executive director. I don’t think she could have set us up better for the coming years,” Brown said.
He also serves as head of the search committee for the new executive director of The Art Base. He described Skinner as leaving “big shoes to fill.”
“We are also looking to maintain the ethos and the healthy culture within the organization, with the way the staff supports each other. It makes for a smooth-running, happy organization. We definitely want to see that continue,” he said.
“My biggest hope,” Skinner said, “is someone comes in with a steady hand and maintains and continues the growth and great progress that we’ve made. I’d like us not to skip a beat.”
Going forward, The Art Base will continue to grow into its new space in downtown Basalt. Brown said they will continue expanding both educational programs and exhibition spaces.
Although she will miss The Art Base community dearly, Skinner said she is looking forward to focusing on herself. She plans to travel, create, garden and spend more time with family and friends.
“It’s been a real gift to be here. I am deeply attached and will stay involved,” she said.
To reach Audrey Ryan, email her at aryan@swiftcom.com.
