What's Happening?
Glenn Lowry has concluded his 30-year tenure as the director of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. During his leadership, Lowry oversaw significant expansions and a merger with PS1 in Queens, while also increasing the museum's endowment from $200 million to $1.7 billion. In a recent podcast interview, Lowry discussed his experiences and the challenges museums face today, such as maintaining their tax-exempt status and responding to board member scandals. As he transitions from his role, Lowry plans to work as an advisor for the Islamic Arts Biennale in Saudi Arabia and the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art in Delhi. He will also engage with the Art Bridges Foundation on a leadership campaign and deliver lectures at the Louvre in Paris.
Why It's Important?
Lowry's departure marks a significant transition for MoMA, one of the world's leading cultural institutions. His leadership has been pivotal in shaping the museum's global influence and financial stability. The challenges he highlighted, such as the potential loss of tax-exempt status for nonprofit museums, could have widespread implications for the cultural sector in the U.S. His future engagements in the Middle East and India reflect a growing interest in these regions' cultural landscapes, potentially influencing global art dialogues. The leadership changes at MoMA and other major New York museums indicate a broader shift in the art world, with new leaders poised to navigate contemporary challenges.
What's Next?
With Lowry's retirement, Christophe Cherix, MoMA's chief curator of drawings and prints, will take over as director. This transition is part of a broader trend of internal promotions at major New York museums, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Guggenheim. Lowry's upcoming advisory roles and lectures suggest he will continue to influence the art world, particularly in fostering new leadership and reimagining the role of museums in the 21st century. His focus on the Middle East and India may also encourage greater cultural exchange and collaboration between these regions and the U.S.
Beyond the Headlines
Lowry's reflections on the fragility of museums highlight the ongoing need for strategic leadership and adaptability in cultural institutions. His concerns about tax-exempt status and board member scandals underscore the complex ethical and financial challenges museums face. As he engages with international projects, Lowry's work may contribute to a more interconnected global art community, emphasizing the importance of diverse cultural narratives and innovative museum practices.
