The Jamestown Arts Center has appointed Christine Cocca as its new executive director, effective immediately. A resident of North Scituate, R.I., Cocca has served in leadership roles at cultural institutions in Providence, R.I., and Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
Cocoa’s career in the arts spans more than two decades. She has served as director of Black Goat Studios, an organization she co-founded with artist Entang Wiharso, and as executive director of Antena Projects and director of Yogyakarta Open Studios. She was appointed by the Indonesian government in 2001 to revive the historically significant Yogyakarta Biennial.
In a statement, Cocca said, “I am honored to join the Jamestown Arts Center and build upon its legacy of artistic excellence and community enrichment. I strongly believe in the transformative power of contemporary art and ideas. Alongside the dedicated JAC team and passionate supporters, I am committed to expanding access to arts education, fostering creative expression, and ensuring that arts experiences remain accessible and transformative for all.”
Cocoa’s appointment was announced by board chair Didi Suydam, who said in a statement, “Christine Cocca’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Jamestown Arts Center. Her leadership experience and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in advancing the cultural landscape of every community she has served. She is poised to steer the Arts Center toward a new era of growth and impactful community engagement.”
