Gudmund Vigtel, who oversaw the High Museum of Art in Atlanta for nearly three decades, has died. He was 87.

A statement issued by the museum says Vigtel died Saturday. He served as the museum's director from 1963 to 1991.

Museum officials say Vigtel helped triple the size of the museum's permanent collection and established more than $15 million in endowment and trust funds.

During his tenure, the museum's staff increased from four to 150 people. He also pushed for construction of the High's iconic building, which opened in 1983.

The statement says Vigtel, better known as "Vig," handled everything from curating to working with volunteers during his early years as director.

Tags: High Museum of Art, Gudmund Vigtel, museum director