Robyn Murphy has been appointed as the permanent chief executive officer of the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts, now doing business as Create Baltimore, after serving as the organization’s interim leader for eight months.
“It’s an honor to serve the city I love through this new role,” Murphy said in a statement. “Baltimore’s creative community is one of the greatest strengths of our city. I’m energized by the opportunity to help elevate its voices, expand its reach, and ensure BOPA remains a strong and responsive partner to artists and audiences alike.”
Mayor Brandon Scott approved Murphy’s appointment, which was unanimously supported by the arts organization’s board of directors.
“Robyn is a lifelong Baltimorean, proven leader and convener who has a vision that deeply understands the creativity, energy, and talent that define Baltimore,” Scott said in a statement. “Her ability to foster innovation, inspire confidence, build and maintain relationships makes her the right person to fill this important role.”
Murphy, who also serves as the CEO of JRM Consultancy, was named as BOPA’s interim leader in November, after the arts organization cut ties with its previous CEO, Rachel Graham.
During her time as interim CEO, the organization has produced many city events and programs, such as the New Year’s Eve fireworks at the Inner Harbor, Artscape 2025 in downtown, the Baltimore Farmers Market under the Jones Falls Expressway, the Top of the World observation deck at the Baltimore World Trade Center building, and several other projects.
In June, the organization announced a new agreement to work with Baltimore City and its new name, “Create Baltimore.”
“Robyn Murphy is the right type of leader for this moment,” said Derrick Chase, a member of the organization’s board of directors, in a statement. “She’s a gifted communicator who listens to creatives and builds the necessary ecosystem to move Baltimore’s art community forward.”
The organization is planning other events for the months ahead, such as the monthlong Free Fall Baltimore celebration and the Baltimore Open Studio Tour Weekend, both held in October.
