In June, the Georgia Museum of Art welcomed Kyle Gallagher to the newly created position of gallery supervisor. Part of the visitor experience department, this role was created to support the museum’s gallery guides and increase visitor satisfaction.
Gallagher comes to the museum with a wealth of expertise in both military and law enforcement. A retired combat veteran of 23 years, he spent time in the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Army as a reservist. “I had the privilege of serving our great nation in Operation Enduring Freedom-Afghanistan,” he reflects, speaking to the deep sense of duty he carries to every role. He also brings an 18-year background in law enforcement, making him well equipped to support the safety and security of the museum.
Gallagher previously worked with the University of Georgia Police Department, where he became accustomed to campus and had his first opportunity to experience the museum. This experience was meaningful to him and left a lasting impression. He says, “I never forgot how welcomed and valued the museum staff made me feel. I remember telling myself back then how fortunate it would be to work in an environment like that — to be surrounded by art and good-hearted people!” What drew him to this position was largely the people he met and the environment. Gallagher describes the museum warmly as “a realm of beauty, wonder and calm.”
This gallery supervisor position came to fruition after Adam Clark, manager of visitor experience, identified a need for more consistency and day-to-day support. “I found that the gallery guides lacked a consistent training program that gave new hires a good foundation to build upon, an ongoing training program that gave established gallery guides ongoing support for new exhibitions and refresher training to make sure everyone stays up to date,” Clark explains. Recognizing these gaps, Clark developed the hybrid role to address them comprehensively. Gallagher will provide hands-on supervision and be a reliable presence in the galleries. Gallagher says, “This position will further enhance guest safety, provide more protection for our art displays, supply work relief for our forward-facing staff and offer additional education for guest inquiries.”
Because so much of his work takes place in the galleries, Gallagher has already developed a connection with the artwork on display. His current favorite work is Julie Green’s “The Last Supper,” which he describes as “fascinating.” When he’s not at work, Gallagher loves being a husband and father to his four children. He enjoys traveling, reading and practicing martial arts.
Authored by:
Paige Carter
