Tetlow has lived in New York and abroad, and came with ideas for how the gallery might bring in more international art. The committee was also impressed with her fund-raising experience, Neuschwander says. And with her background as a sculpture student at VCU, “she has the artist mentality which is wonderful.”

Tetlow was also familiar with 1708’s history as a nonprofit, artist-run gallery — the oldest in Richmond and one of the oldest in the country.

After serving five years, former executive director Peter Calvert stepped down in July. During his tenure, the gallery moved to 319 E. Broad St., where Calvert focused on attracting donations and attention to the new space. Today, the gallery is showing more national art, attracting more people and selling more than ever.

Tetlow’s charge is to continue the momentum and fund-raising, as well as building ties to other local arts organizations, says Rob Acosta-Lewis, president of the board: “Thinking beyond the walls of 1708 … how it should work with the community and how it should be living out its mission within the community.” — Carrie Nieman