John T. Riddle, The New World, 1974 (Hammonds House Museum Collection)

Hammonds House Museum Announces Plans for Major Reorganization

Atlanta, GA --- Hammonds House Museum has announced the beginning of a multi-year reorganization plan which includes a new leadership structure and a more mission-focused business model. 

“We have been re-evaluating the museum’s current infrastructure and we are implementing changes,” states Imara Canady, Board President of Hammonds House Museum. “Factors that influenced our decision include the ongoing effects of the global pandemic, the current economic environment, and the challenges being experienced by arts and cultural organizations – especially African American institutions. We can’t continue to operate with a traditional business model because we are not a traditional business. To be relevant and move forward, we must embrace new ideas and innovation.

“Since 1988 Hammonds House Museum has been led by talented, dedicated leaders and we are thankful for their contributions. To build more capacity, ensure ongoing stability and institutional continuity, the museum is moving to a lateral leadership team. As the Board begins the restructure, we will eliminate positions and create new ones to create a team that will share leadership responsibilities, so the operation of the organization doesn’t rest on the shoulders of just one executive.

“We are looking at organizations that are experiencing success and making great strides towards continued sustainability as we refine and implement our multi-year plan. We are excited to change our trajectory, gain forward momentum, and position Hammonds House Museum for future growth.” 

Due to the rapid surge of COVID-19 cases, and in keeping with policies being followed by Fulton County facilities, Hammonds House Museum is closed to the public TEMPORARILY, and will reopen this Spring. The Donald Locke: Southern Mansions exhibition, which was scheduled to open this February, has been cancelled.

Hammonds House Museum is generously supported by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners through Fulton County Arts and Culture, the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, The National Performance Network (NPN), AT&T, WarnerMedia, and a host of donors and members. 

Hammonds House Museum’s mission is to celebrate and share the cultural diversity and important legacy of artists of African descent. The museum is the former residence of the late Dr. Otis Thrash Hammonds, a prominent Atlanta physician and passionate arts patron. A 501(c)3 organization which opened in 1988, Hammonds House Museum boasts a permanent collection of more than 450 works including art by Romare Bearden, Robert S. Duncanson, Benny Andrews, Elizabeth Catlett, Jacob Lawrence, Hale Woodruff, Amalia Amaki, Radcliffe Bailey, and Mildred Thompson. The museum offers rotating exhibitions, artist talks, arts education programs, exhibition tours, virtual programs, and other cultural events throughout the year. Located in a beautiful Victorian home in West End Atlanta, Hammonds House Museum is a cultural treasure and a unique venue.