Martha Sielman to Retire — and What Comes Next for SAQA

After 22 years of dedicated leadership, our Executive Director, Martha Sielman, has announced that she will retire at the end of 2026. Martha has shaped SAQA into the vibrant, global community it is today, and we are deeply grateful for her vision, tireless work, and love for this organization and its artists.

As we look ahead to this new chapter, we invite you — members, donors, supporters, project partners, and friends across the arts community — to join us for a SAQA Community Meeting on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. EDT (GMT/UTC-4, New York Time). The meeting will be recorded for those not able to attend.

Martha will speak directly to the community she helped build, and the Board will share how we are approaching a thoughtful, well-planned transition. Throughout this period, our programs, exhibitions, and member services will continue without interruption.

At the meeting, we will also open the search for SAQA's next Executive Director. Applications will open August 10 and close September 7, 2026. You can help shape what comes next: if you know someone whose vision and leadership would serve SAQA well, please help us spread the word. Sharing news of this search within your networks is one of the most meaningful ways you can support the organization during this time.

This gathering is informational rather than a farewell. We will celebrate Martha's remarkable tenure at SAQA's annual Holiday Party later this year.

Register here to receive the meeting link and a reminder: https://www.saqa.com/community-meeting

Thank you for your continued support! We really hope to see you at the Community Meeting on August 10.

With gratitude,
Lilo Bowman
Board President, on behalf of the SAQA Board of Directors