When Bellevue Arts Museum Director of Curatorial Affairs Michael Monroe announced his retirement as of February 2010, the local arts community braced for his departure.

Today, arts patrons can breathe easier. The Board of Trustees of Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) announced the appointment of Stefano Catalani as Director of Curatorial Affairs and Artistic Director. Catalani has served as BAM’s Curator since 2005 and will transition into his expanded role on February 12.

Monroe will pass the torch to Catalani and himself become Director Emeritus in honor of his outstanding achievements at the museum.

“Stefano has the vision and leadership to ensure the museum’s continued vitality,” said Susan Edelheit, President of the Board of Trustees. “He has established a track record at BAM of developing thought-provoking, engaging exhibitions and programs that transform our understanding of art, craft and design. We are thrilled he has accepted the position, and look forward to his continued contributions as the leader of our curatorial team and our artistic programs.”

Along with the new title, Catalani brings an extensive background in curating exhibitions and educational programs focused on art, craft and design. As the curator for BAM, he has conceived and organized 17 acclaimed exhibitions, including ÜberPortrait, Ed Pien: Haven, Dim Sum at the On-On Tea Room: The Jewelry of Ron Ho and A Tapestry of Memories: The Art of Dinh Q. Lê.

Catalani has lent special tribute to Northwest artists, by showcasing the work of some of the most promising talents of the region, including Mandy Greer, John Grade and Etsuko Ichikawa.

Four exhibitions curated by Catalani have traveled to other museum venues nationwide. During his tenure at BAM, he has written and contributed to nine exhibition catalogues published by the museum, among them an award winner from the American Association of Museums.

“I’m honored and excited to expand my role at BAM,” Catalani said. “I’ve been very fortunate to be part of the museum’s tremendous growth over the past five years, and I continue to be deeply committed to engaging artists and audiences alike in new conversations about art, craft and design.”

In his new role as Director of Curatorial Affairs and Artistic Director, Catalani will spearhead the development and implementation of the museum’s multi-faceted curatorial and educational programs. He will work in close partnership with Executive Director and CEO, Mark W. Crawford, on strengthening the museum’s vision of “illuminating and enriching the human spirit through art, craft and design.”

Both will report directly to the Board of Trustees.

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425-453-4602.