May 8, 2025
The RiNo Art District Board of Directors today announced it has appointed Adam Larkey and Gerald Horner as interim co-executive directors to steward the organization through this important transitional period.
Larkey and Horner bring a deep well of institutional knowledge and local insight. Both have served on RiNo’s boards and played active roles in shaping the district’s strategic priorities. Adam Larkey, who was Chair of the RiNo BID Board, brings decades of experience in real estate, district operations, and stakeholder engagement. Gerald Horner, a longtime arts administrator and public art advocate, has held leadership roles at the Kirkland Museum and serves on the Colorado Creative Industries Council.
Each will focus on distinct areas of work aligned with their expertise: Larkey will oversee BID/GID operations and initiatives, while Horner will lead RADs programmatic efforts, district marketing, including events, artist engagement, and member support. All programs and services should continue without disruption, and the boards of RiNo’s four partner organizations will continue to guide major decisions during this interim period.
As part of the new operating model, the RiNo Business Improvement District (BID) will employ its own staff and operate independently, while continuing to collaborate with partner organizations. The General Improvement District (GID) will contract with the BID for ongoing management and operational support. Meanwhile, the RiNo Art District (RAD) will continue managing the activities of Keep RiNo Wild (KRW) and will transition from a management agreement with the BID to a grant-based & contract relationship. This will allow each organization to retain a clear mission and role, while fostering stronger operational alignment across the district.
This organizational model is part of a broader evolution that began last fall, when the BID Board initiated a formal evaluation of governance and operations in response to extensive community feedback gathered during the BID renewal process. A cross-board committee made up of representatives from the BID, GID, RAD, and KRW was formed to ensure that any structural changes reflect the unique roles and missions of all four entities. That work is ongoing and will help ensure the area is structured for long-term success.
The BID is now launching a national search for its next executive director. RiNo Art District will conduct a separate, independent search for its own permanent leader. These two leaders will ultimately report to their respective boards and continue to collaborate on shared initiatives that support the broader vision of the district.
“This is a moment to build on what works while preparing for what’s next, said Larkey. “We’ve spent months listening, planning, and aligning on a stronger organizational structure that reflects our community’s needs and our ongoing commitment to collaboration between our organizations. Gerald and I are stepping into these roles with a clear sense of purpose: to maintain momentum and help lay the groundwork for long-term success.”
“I’ve been proud to support the RiNo Art District’s evolution over the years as a board member, a neighbor, and a passionate advocate for the arts, ” said Horner. “RiNo’s creative economy is a powerful force, generating jobs, driving foot traffic, and sparking investment. The collaboration between artists, entrepreneurs, and local businesses is what makes this district so special, and we’re all better for it. I’m committed to helping guide this transition in a way that reflects our goals and values and sets the organization up for a sustainable future.”
Through this evolution, the spirit of collaboration remains core to RiNo’s identity. The BID, GID, RAD, and KRW will continue to work closely to ensure the advancement of their shared goals of supporting creativity, connection and economic vitality.