What's Happening?
Rodrigo Moura, the artistic director of the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (Malba), is stepping down after a year in the role. His departure coincides with significant changes at the museum, including the acquisition of the Daros Latinamerica
Collection, which has doubled Malba's holdings. This acquisition has prompted a shift in institutional priorities, leading to the creation of a new chief executive position to oversee operational management and strategic planning. Moura's exit is unexpected, especially as he was involved in curating several key projects for the museum's 2026 exhibition program. The museum's founder, Eduardo F. Costantini, has praised Moura's contributions and expressed a desire for him to remain connected to Malba in the future.
Why It's Important?
The departure of Rodrigo Moura and the acquisition of the Daros Latinamerica Collection mark a pivotal moment for Malba. The museum's decision to introduce a chief executive position reflects a shift towards a more corporate governance structure, aligning with international standards. This change is significant for the Latin American art scene, as it may influence other institutions in the region to adopt similar models. The expansion of Malba's collection and the planned increase in its operational capacity could enhance its status as a leading institution for modern and contemporary art, potentially attracting more visitors and international collaborations.
What's Next?
Malba is preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary with plans to expand its physical space and build a new collections storage facility. The introduction of a chief executive is expected to support this growth and ensure that the museum's operations align with its expanded scale. The museum's 2026 exhibition program, which Moura helped curate, will proceed as planned, featuring notable artists such as Olga de Amaral, Vivian Suter, and Frida Kahlo. The search for Moura's successor and the appointment of a chief executive will be crucial steps in shaping the museum's future direction.
