Building a Living Museum: The Journey of the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center

Friday, Aug 28th ~ 7pm ~ Free

James Bier, Director of the Chumash Museum & Cultural Center

During his presentation, James Bier will share his journey to becoming the museum’s director, the vision behind the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center, and the story of its evolution from concept to one of California’s newest cultural destinations.

As the Museum Director of the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center, he oversees the museum’s strategic direction, operations, exhibitions, collections, and public engagement. Since joining the museum, he has helped lead its successful public opening, expanded educational programming and community events, advanced significant repatriation efforts with major institutions, and developed partnerships that strengthen the museum’s role as a center for cultural preservation and learning.

With more than 35 years of experience in museums, fine arts, collections management, and operations, James has worked with leading museums, galleries, artists, and cultural institutions throughout the United States. His background in industrial and systems engineering brings a unique perspective to creating immersive visitor experiences while preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

For more information about the Chumash Museum visit: https://www.sychumashmuseum.org/

Light refreshments will be served.

This program will be held in the Friends’ Room at the Buellton Library, 202 Dairyland Road in Buellton