Ann Berchtold works at the intersection of public art, design, and placemaking—helping communities use creativity to shape vibrant shared spaces. With over 20 years of experience as a curator, strategist, and advisor, she has guided cities, cultural institutions, and private developers in building lasting public art programs and cultural plans.
Ann began her career as a curator and gallery director, founding San Diego’s first contemporary art fair and launching the Open Walls Project, which transformed everyday facades into citywide exhibitions. These early projects shaped her belief that public art is civic infrastructure—essential to community identity, connection, and pride.
As Director of Public Art & Placemaking and Director of Marketing & Communications at MIG, Ann bridges storytelling and design to create environments that inspire engagement and action. Her work spans from reimagining plazas through art to leading campaigns that encourage environmental stewardship.
She also serves on the board of the Design Forward Alliance, advancing design thinking as a tool for equity and social impact. Through her leadership, Ann continues to champion art and design as forces that connect people, strengthen communities, and shape more meaningful public life.
Ann is Director of Public Art and Placemaking