MARYNA HRUSHETSKA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Appointed Executive Director in 2005, Maryna has led a major revitalization of CAFAM by developing a bold curatorial vision and instituting effective administrative changes. Known for creating both thoughtful and thought-provoking exhibitions, Maryna aims to encourage curiosity in the world we live in. An avid art collector and global thinker, Maryna has been responsible for developing original exhibits curated around both ideas and objects, including popular exhibits such as Street Signs and Solar Ovens: Socialcraft in Los Angeles, Sovereign Threads: A History of Palestinian Embroidery, and Mythical Creatures and Characters: Tales from Around the World. Maryna’s dynamic leadership has recently been recognized by the Los Angeles Arts Commission, who awarded her an Arts Leadership Initiative (ALI) grant in 2008.

Prior to her career in the arts, Maryna, who holds a Master of Arts in Global Affairs from the top-rated Thunderbird School of Global Management, worked as an advisor specializing in the developing economies of Eastern Europe. She has worked with the World Bank, the European Privatization and
Investment Corporation (EPIC), and private hedge funds. A natural cultural explorer, Maryna has lived in New York City, San Francisco, Moscow, Kyiv, Vienna, and London and has traveled extensively throughout the “emerging” world. Recognizing the power of art to build bridges between cultures and diverse communities, in a post 9/11 world, Maryna chose to merge her business savvy with her passion for cultural exploration.

HOLLY JERGER
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROGRAMS
This Education Director has been spotted using tools ranging from power saws to glitter and thinks that clear packing tape and drywall screws are two of the world’s most important inventions. During her first week at the museum, Holly traveled to an artist’s studio to assist him in crating his work, was later seen resizing plywood pedestals, and ended the week by testing out paper maché for an upcoming workshop. Holly has a Master of Fine Arts degree (specializing in Printmaking) and 6 years of experience in art education. She has worked at University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Fullerton Museum Center, and continues her work as a professional artist. She applies her talent and experience to bring the museum’s exhibitions to life and to make them an accessible learning experience. She also develops innovative workshops for both families and adults, and her students are always eager to sign up for Holly’s next adventure.

MICHELLE LEE
DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE
Michelle comes to the museum after working for other esteemed nonprofits such as Aid For Aids, KCET, and USC’s Office of International Services. Recently receiving her Master of Arts from the Annenberg School for Communication, Michelle was drawn to make CAFAM her next career step by the museum’s mission of community building and supporting human interest through art and education. A Los Angeles native, Michelle’s personal interest is in the literary world and collecting books. Her most recent prized possession is a 1709 edition of poetical works including the first publishing of Alexander Pope. CAFAM welcomes Michelle’s enthusiasm and energy, both of which are valuable assets in helping the museum to grow as the Development and Communications Associate!

EILEN R. STEWART
EXHIBITIONS AND PUBLICITY COORDINATOR
One of the newest faces of CAFAM, Eilen R. Stewart joins the museum with much enthusiasm and dedication. Born in Russia and raised in Los Angeles, Eilen brings a unique perspective on the importance of cultural understanding. As the new Exhibitions and Publicity Coordinator, she was attracted to the museum for its ability to focus on overlooked media and emerging artists. With a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Ceramics from California State University Long Beach and a Masters of Fine Arts from Arizona State University, Eilen uses her skills and knowledge to coordinate CAFAMs exhibitions and publicity, along with the needs of artists, curators, press, and the museum. When she is not enjoying the diversity of her new position, she enjoys spending time with her two Chihuahuas, Denzel and Niles, making jewelry, knitting, and reading. Overall, CAFAM is lucky to have Eilen on board!  

ROSE CHRISTIE BAQUIR
ADMISSIONS AND MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR
Personable and friendly, Rose is CAFAM’s smiling face that greets visitors and members at the admissions desk. A recent graduate of the University of Southern California, Rose studied Art History and Communication Design while pursuing volunteer work within the community. With a strong interest in the cultural, religious, and historical aspects of art, Rose decided to meld her interest with her passion for community service by joining CAFAM. Formerly holding an internship at the Kevin Barry Fine Art Gallery, Rose as well as her meticulous organizational skills and enthusiasm to learn make her a incredibly valuable addition to the museum!

YUKO MAKUUCHI
GLOBAL MERCHANT
An enthusiastic and creative soul, Yuko is the heart of the Shop@CAFAM. Yuko has a degree in Art History and spent her early years in Tokyo running her own antique store. In the late 1990s, Yuko moved to California to further her career and to explore her artistic nature. A multitalented artist, Yuko is always designing jewelry, knitting, crocheting, or felting. She is also an accomplished photographer. Yuko enjoys traveling to exotic places and shopping in the local bazaars where she seeks out hidden treasures. She has used her many talents and wide experience to fill the Shop with unique merchandise. Her efforts were recognized by Los Angeles Magazine in the August 2006 “Best of LA” edition, where the Shop was voted one of the top museum stores in LA. When she is not working in the Shop, Yuko can be found teaching adult workshops on knitting, felting, or t-shirt design. On the personal side, Yuko has three very well behaved cats and her favorite colors are blue and yellow.

PHILLIP HUNT
SALES ASSOCIATE
After a successful career in the Navy, Phillip received his degree in Religious Studies. Phillip is an avid collector of folk art and antiques and has had his own antique bookstore and folk jewelry business. He has a knack for unearthing unique treasures wherever he goes. With his endless curiosity and luck, his collection expands every day. He collects Japanese ceramics, Japanese Hanga prints, Kokeshi dolls, Chinese Yi-Xing tea pots, and other eclectic items. Philip can be found in the Shop@CAFAM and is always happy to help patrons find the unique item that is perfect for them.

CAFAMs staff is comprised of professionals who, collectively, have worked in 27 cities from Ljubljana to Tokyo; speak ten languages including Japanese and Ukrainian; and hold degrees in fields as diverse as international relations and anthropology. We do not just promote diversity, we personify it.

Our dedicated, resourceful team is committed to inspiring cultural curiosity and understanding through an eclectic array of exhibitions, educational programs, and workshops.

ABOUT
Our mission, our philosophy, and our view of folk art!

MUSINGS
A special HAPPY HOLIDAYS from CAFAM!

WHO ARE THE FOLK?
What is the most complete tribute to the human condition? What is folklore and who are the folk?

HISTORY
From an innovative café featuring international omelettes to the CAFAM you know today, read our history here.

STAFF
We don't just promote diversity, we personify it!

BOARD
Presenting our dedicated CAFAM Board of Trustees!

SUPPORTERS
Generosity is beneficial to your health and builds a stronger community. Join our growing list of supporters!

EMPLOYMENT
Job opportunities at CAFAM!