Founding director of MacNider Art Museum Richard Leet dies

MASON CITY — The founding director of the Charles H. MacNider Art Museum in Mason City has died.

Richard Leet became the founding director of the museum in 1965 after having taught art seven years in the Oelwein Community School District. He helped develop the museum into a place with a comprehensive arts center program including the building of the permanent collection and staging of temporary exhibitions, classes, film showings, guided tours as well as concerts and festivals. Leet retired from the museum in 2001. 

Leet’s artwork was exhibited in numerous museums or venues, especially across the state, with his last exhibit being at the Clear Lake Arts Center in January 2022. Leet also had works selected for competitive, group and invitational shows as well as had works purchased and added to the art collections of individuals and businesses.

Leet died on Sunday at the Heritage Care Center in Mason City. Funeral services are pending at this time.