City arts booster said to be mulling mayoral run

Matt Wyatt ... president of the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts

ROCHESTER - President of the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts Matt Wyatt has yet to formally announce his candidacy for mayor, but he dropped strong hints in a recent speech.

Wyatt, 27, is a Rochester native and Spaulding High School graduate. He studied at the New Hampshire Institute of Art before moving back to town. "I care deeply about our downtown and the people working hard to make it great again. I've witnessed their creativity and determination and I want to shine a light on their efforts." Wyatt said recently.

Wyatt co-founded the museum in 2011 and never requested public funding. The staff is volunteer-based and the art is borrowed or donated entirely. The collection is on view in the long corridor of the Community Center and it's currently the largest art exhibit in the city. The museum also displays works in the Carnegie Gallery at the Rochester library. Past exhibits featured Susan Kare, graphic designer most known for her work on the original Apple Macintosh in 1984; Bob Gruen, legendary rock 'n roll photographer; Wayne White, set designer for TV cult-classic Pee-wee's Playhouse; Eric Carle, beloved children's author/illustrator; as well as selections from the Picasso Estate Collection.

"On behalf of the citizens of New Hampshire, I want to commend and thank the museum for its work to make fine art more accessible to our people... I look forward to the effort's continued growth and success." said Governor Maggie Hassan in a recent letter of support.

Some speculate that he will launch a bid to win the position. Wyatt was unavailable for comment, but an adviser says he "proudly" serves the city as Chair of Arts & Culture and Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, and "will make an announcement regarding his future" before taking questions.

"He is being strongly encouraged by many in non-profits/arts to run," said one supporter. "I know he is currently consulting with people in the city to make a decision and gain support. We expect and hope he will release a statement announcing his bid for the seat soon."