Christophe Cherix to helm MoMA: A New Era Begins
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A New Director for a New Chapter
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is poised to enter a new chapter with the appointment of Christophe Cherix as its new director. This decision, unanimously approved by the Museum’s Board of Directors, marks the end of Glenn Lowry’s remarkable 30-year tenure, which began in 1995.Cherix, an internal candidate, is set to officially assume his new role in September 2025.
Cherix’s Vision: Building on a Legacy
MoMA’s leadership has expressed strong confidence in Cherix’s ability to lead the museum forward. In a joint statement, President Marie-Josée Kravis and President Sarah Arison highlighted Cherix’s “brilliant curatorial leadership in modern and contemporary art,” emphasizing his close relationships with artists, academic achievements, research contributions, internationally recognized publications, and balanced management style. They believe these qualities make him the ideal candidate to guide the museum in its next phase.
The brilliant curatorial leadership of Christophe in modern and contemporary art, its close relationships with the artists, academic excellence, research and internationally renowned publications and balanced management reputation make him the ideal figure to lead the museum right now.
Marie-Josée Kravis and Sarah Arison, presidents of MoMA
Who is Christophe Cherix? A Profile of the Incoming Director
born in Switzerland, Christophe Cherix brings a wealth of experience to his new position. He holds a degree in letters from the University of Geneva and previously served as curator of the Department of prints at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire (Mah) in Geneva. Cherix joined MoMA in 2007 as curator in the Department of Prints and Illustrated Books and was a fellow of the center for Curatorial Leadership in 2010. In 2013, he was appointed Chief Curator of Drawings and Prints through the support of the Robert Lehman Foundation.
His curatorial credits include notable exhibitions such as Yoko Ono: One Woman Show, 1960–1971
(with Klaus Biesenbach, 2015), Adrian Piper: A Synthesis of Institutions, 1965–2016
(with Connie Butler and David Platzker, 2018), and Betye Saar: Legends of Black Girl’s Window
(with Esther Adler, 2019). These exhibitions demonstrate his commitment to showcasing diverse and impactful artists.
As Cherix prepares to take the helm, MoMA faces a dynamic and evolving art world. The museum’s ability to adapt to changing trends, engage with new technologies, and foster inclusivity will be crucial for its continued success. With a strong foundation built over decades, and cherix’s vision for the future, MoMA is well-positioned to remain a leading institution in the global art community. The art world watches with anticipation as he steps into this pivotal role.