What's Happening?
Kathy Kanjo, previously the director and CEO of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, has been appointed as the new director of the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art. This appointment follows
the recent merger between UC Irvine and the Orange County Museum of Art, creating a new institution. Kanjo's role will involve overseeing a substantial collection of over 9,000 artworks, including the Gerald Buck Collection, which features significant works by artists such as David Hockney and Ed Ruscha. The merger, announced a little over two months ago, involved UC Irvine acquiring OCMA's assets, employees, and debt. Kanjo's appointment comes ahead of the initially planned schedule, reflecting the urgency and importance of her role in shaping the museum's future.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Kathy Kanjo is significant as it marks a new chapter for the merged institution, which aims to become a major cultural hub in California. By leveraging UC Irvine's research capabilities and commitment to public service, the museum is poised to offer rigorous and inclusive exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences. This development is crucial for the local art scene, as it promises to enhance the visibility and appreciation of California's artistic heritage. The merger and Kanjo's leadership could potentially attract more visitors, scholars, and artists to the region, boosting the cultural and economic landscape of Orange County.
What's Next?
Under Kanjo's leadership, the museum is expected to clarify its core identity and strengthen connections with UC Irvine and the broader community. This involves creating exhibitions that not only showcase the artistic legacies of the Irvine, Buck, and OCMA collections but also foster innovation through cross-disciplinary collaborations. The museum's future plans include engaging with students from the Claire Trevor School of the Arts and utilizing campus resources to support its mission. As the museum establishes its new mandate, it will likely seek to build consensus among stakeholders and the public to ensure its success and sustainability.
