Torpedo Factory Board Names New CEO

The Torpedo Factory Art Center board has hired Eric Wallner as its chief executive officer. Wallner will manage TFAC operations, assist the board with planning, and work to expand its reach locally, nationally and internationally.

“I’m delighted to be working with the artists and board of the Torpedo Factory Art Center,” Wallner said in a statement. “I know how much the Torpedo Factory means to Alexandria as an economic generator and community resource. This is an outstanding opportunity at a great time in TFAC’s history.”

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Wallner most recently served as the creative economy specialist for the City of Ventura in California, where he focused on attracting and retaining creative businesses. Previously, he was cultural affairs supervisor for Ventura, managing the city’s cultural funding program, technical assistance for artists and arts organizations, and many special events.

He has also worked as program director at the Painted Bride Art Center in Philadelphia and has experience with several metropolitan DC organizations, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the Urban Institute and OPERA America.

He holds an art degree from Brown University and a master’s degree in arts policy from Ohio State University.

“The Torpedo Factory Art Center Board is very fortunate that Eric Wallner is bringing his talents and experience to Alexandria at this crucial time,” said TFAC Board President Rosemary Feit Covey. “We are working to expand upon our strengths as a creative force. Every day we offer the public rare opportunities to visit studios of internationally recognized artists, talk about the creative process, and purchase their work. We are excited to push our limits and keep growing as a vital part of Alexandria's waterfront.”