The executive director of the Contemporary Museum will step down in September, as the Baltimore institution that has struggled to build an audience and financial support begins a transformation aimed at broadening its appeal and strengthening community ties.

Gary Sangster, who has headed the museum since 1996, will stay two months beyond the end of his contract, which expires this month, museum trustees announced yesterday.

"We are thrilled to have this opportunity to determine the best strategy for the Contemporary's future," said Steve Ziger, board president.

"The board is dedicated to contemporary art having a meaningful place in the cultural life of this city."

'Mutual decision'

He said the director's departure was "a mutual decision" by Sangster and the board. Sangster declined to comment.

Founded in 1989 by Baltimorean George Ciscle, the Contemporary initially dubbed itself "the museum without walls," presenting a series of temporary exhibits in spaces such as the Walters Art Museum and a vacant store in a strip mall. In 1999, Sangster oversaw the opening of a permanent exhibition space at 100 W. Centre St.

Though Sangster directed several well-received exhibitions, including Snapshot, a compilation of 1,300 photographs by professional and amateur artists, there were also long stretches when few new shows were launched.

While the museum won support from some local collectors and arts activists, others complained that exhibits and programs were elitist and out of touch with the community's needs.

Before coming to Baltimore, Sangster, a native of Australia, served as director of the Cleveland Center of Contemporary Arts from 1993 to 1995. He also was curator at the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York from 1989 through 1993.

Institution's future

The Contemporary's announcement came after trustees spent several hours yesterday discussing the future of the institution, which has been troubled in recent months by financial instability and an apparent lack of a clear mission.

A benefit auction last month raised approximately $75,000, putting the museum on firm financial footing, Ziger said.

Two weeks ago, New York City-based AEA Consulting began studying how the museum can better serve the community. Museum trustees want to find the best way to reach new audiences and strengthen educational programs, Ziger said.