Ken Riehl

Advisor

Ken has a diverse background with over three decades of experience in leadership, both in the defense industry and the nonprofit sector. A former CEO of the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, Ken played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s business landscape before transitioning to become a key advisor for several local organizations, including Cape Ann Plein Air. He was a founding member of Cape Ann Plein Air and served on its board for nine years, and he continues to provide strategic guidance to the organization in his advisory role.

Ken has lived in Essex for 35 years, where he and his wife raised their two sons, and he has long been a passionate advocate for Cape Ann's rich cultural heritage. Though not an artist himself, he deeply appreciates the unique way that local artists capture the beauty of the region. For Ken, the most rewarding aspect of his work with artists is their shared appreciation for the stunning landscapes of Cape Ann and their ability to translate that beauty into such diverse and inspiring art.

Ken believes that events like Cape Ann Plein Air are vital not only for artists but for the local community as a whole, as they help enhance the vibrancy and quality of life in the region. He sees art as a powerful tool for connecting people to the unique character of Cape Ann, from its rocky shores to its charming streets. One of the things that surprises first-time attendees of the Cape Ann Plein Air weeklong event is the sheer excitement of seeing so many artists painting in the region, culminating in the Gala Exhibit, which showcases over 200 works of art, representing the incredible diversity and beauty of Cape Ann.