Glenn Lowry, the director of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) for the past 30 years, visited Hong Kong's M+ museum on September 14, 2024, to discuss the future of modern art museums. During his visit, Lowry, who is set to retire in 2025 at the age of 70, emphasized the necessity for museums to embrace contemporary perspectives and let go of past conventions. He criticized the heavy reliance on wealthy patrons and the rigidity of traditional art historical canons, advocating for a more inclusive approach that engages with diverse opinions [973d7839].
Lowry's leadership has significantly transformed MoMA, increasing its endowment from $200 million to an impressive $1.7 billion. He highlighted the importance of a global perspective in modern art, referencing a recent exhibition featuring Filipino-American artist Pacita Abad as a case in point. This aligns with the ongoing discussions about the relevance of modern art institutions in a rapidly changing cultural landscape [973d7839].
In addition to these insights, Lowry acknowledged the challenges faced by institutions like MoMA and M+, particularly in light of criticisms regarding censorship at M+. He believes that such challenges can enhance the significance of these institutions, pushing them to adapt and evolve in response to contemporary issues [973d7839].
The Young V&A museum in London was recently named 'Museum of the Year 2024' by Art Fund, just one year after its opening. The museum, which underwent a £13 million transformation, aims to inspire creativity in young people through its child-focused experiences. It features three permanent galleries and a temporary space, receiving praise for its innovative approach. The Young V&A will be awarded a £120,000 grant as part of this recognition, alongside other finalists such as Craven Museum and Manchester Museum [efb29d42].
These developments reflect a broader trend in the museum sector, where institutions are grappling with the need to remain relevant and responsive to current societal issues while also navigating the complexities of funding and audience engagement. As museums worldwide recover from the pandemic, the emphasis on modern art's relevance and the importance of adapting to contemporary challenges remains crucial [efb29d42].