As the Haggerty Museum of Art celebrates its 40th anniversary at Marquette during the 2024-25 academic year, it also welcomes a new leader. John McKinnon, director of the Haggerty Museum of Art, started in his role in July. McKinnon, who brings 17 years of art museum experience to his new position, most recently worked as the executive director of the Elmhurst Art Museum in Elmhurst, Illinois.
McKinnon sat down recently with Marquette Today to chat about his career and what he loves about the art world.
What led you to a career in the art world?
I tried out electrical engineering but then took a hard left turn after taking art classes with some inspiring professors. After that, I was hooked on contemporary art.
With almost two decades of experience under your belt, what’s your favorite part about what you do every day?
I’ve met a lot of amazing people, traveled around the world and organized some shows that even surprised me. For instance, in my last position, I helped host a fully playable 18-hole mini golf course designed by artists. I’m excited to find new ways to grow here in Milwaukee.
How do you think your previous experience will help with your new role at the Haggerty Museum?
Over the past 17 years of my career, I’ve come to rely on my “Three Cs”: creativity, communication and commitment. These guiding principles have helped me lead teams, manage an organization’s creative output, cultivate community support and oversee growth.
What’s a common misconception the public has about art museums, and how would you counteract that way of thinking?
It is a common misconception to think an art museum is not for you. Visitors of all ages can find a few good entry points with some of our free tours and other programs. Plus, the Haggerty Museum has a proven track record of finding curriculum matches and partnerships with other academic departments on campus. An interdisciplinary approach is part of the art museum’s DNA, so our staff often works with classes, ranging from biology to engineering, to open new ways of thinking.
What advice would you give those looking to get involved in the art world?
Museums are a great place to start getting involved at any level. They have tours, lectures, hands-on materials and the space for a casual visit. Many events, like our lunchtime talks at the Haggerty, allow visitors from campus and beyond to drop in and learn bite-sized amounts with each visit. I suggest subscribing to the newsletters of local arts organizations to stay informed and find the right fit for you.
Additionally, a fun way to get involved as an adult is to join a museum member group. Traveling to galleries, art fairs and other destinations is less daunting when you have a guide and others who are similarly open minded.
If you could meet any artist, who would it be and why?
When I worked in Milwaukee, my mentor introduced me to Bruce Conner via phone, fax and letter. I booked a flight to San Francisco to interview the famously elusive artist before he could change his mind, which of course he did at the last minute.
Since my appointment was canceled, I used the trip to visit different artists, curators and galleries in San Francisco. People I met exclaimed, “Bruce Conner?! Wow! That guy invented the music video!” Others believed the false reports of his death, which Conner fabricated as early as 1959. One insightful artist suggested that if I had videotaped my meetings with everyone but the artist, the result would have eclipsed any actual interview. I imagine Conner would have appreciated it. But those who knew him personally could relate to the story of the withdrawn interview.
