Art has the power to transform, connect, and inspire—a philosophy that Erin Shapiro, CEO and director of the Plains Art Museum, embodies in her leadership. Since taking the helm at North Dakota’s only nationally accredited art museum a year and a half ago, Shapiro has worked to keep access to art, ensuring that the museum serves as a space for education, creativity, and inclusivity.
From Artist to Advocate
Originally from upstate New York, Shapiro started on the artist’s side of the industry, earning an MFA in sculpture from the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Her early career was filled with hands-on studio work, creating large-scale performance and installation pieces. However, while working various roles in museums, including an early internship in Florence, Italy, Shapiro discovered a passion for curation and museum operations.
“I loved helping other artists realize their visions,” she said. “That was a turning point for me.”
Over time, she transitioned into full-time museum leadership, taking on roles in institutions across the country, including the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and the Springfield Museum of Art in Ohio. Most recently, she served as the executive director of the Hawaii Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives in Honolulu before making the move to Fargo. “It was definitely a transition from Honolulu to Fargo,” she said with a laugh. “But I’ve found an incredible community here.”
A Commitment to Access and Inclusivity
One of Shapiro’s core beliefs is that art should be accessible to everyone. She’s proud that the Plains Art Museum remains free and open seven days a week, a policy that eliminates barriers for those who might otherwise be intimidated by traditional museum spaces.
“Museums can feel exclusive, but they shouldn’t be,” Shapiro said. “If I hadn’t had access to art as a child, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I want to create that same opportunity for the people of Fargo.”
With that in mind, she is focused on diversifying the museum’s programming. Exhibitions feature international, national, regional, and local artists, ensuring that Fargo residents don’t have to travel to major metropolitan areas to experience world-class art.
Overcoming Challenges in the Museum World
The biggest challenge facing museums today, according to Shapiro, is relevance. With endless entertainment options competing for people’s time, getting visitors through the doors requires a strategic approach.
