The Asheville Area Arts Council recently hired Angela Martinez as its new executive director. She will begin work in March.

Martinez was chosen from three finalists among 60 people who applied during a three-month search. The council reopened the application process in September after its top choices turned down the job.

Arts Council officials noted that fund-raising will be a major part of her job. Martinez reportedly has much experience in national grant writing and working with large donors.

The Arts Council is running a $75,000 deficit on a budget of $373,000, so Martinez will be expected to speed up the membership drive and woo potential donors.

The Arts Council’s aim is to connect the community with the arts through various projects and programs.

Martinez is currently the director of programs for the Association of Performing Arts Presenters in Washington.