The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has appointed Christophe Cherix as its next David Rockefeller Director, marking a pivotal transition for the institution as it approaches its centennial. Cherix, a distinguished curator and scholar, will step into the role in September 2025, following the tenure of Glenn D. Lowry, who has led the museum since 1995.
The decision, made after an extensive six-month international search, was unanimously affirmed by MoMA’s Board of Trustees. Marie-Josée Kravis, Chair of the Board, highlighted Cherix’s “brilliant curatorial leadership,” emphasizing his deep knowledge of modern and contemporary art, as well as his dedication to the museum’s collection. “Christophe’s steady stewardship and insightful vision make him the ideal candidate to lead MoMA into its next chapter,” she stated.
Sarah Arison, President of the Board, echoed this sentiment, pointing to Cherix’s impressive academic credentials, strong relationships with artists, and widely respected research. “His scholarship and leadership within the museum have been exemplary, and we look forward to the future he will shape for MoMA,” she said.
Cherix, originally from Switzerland, joined MoMA in 2007 and has served as The Robert Lehman Foundation Chief Curator of Drawings and Prints since 2013. His tenure has been defined by a dynamic expansion of the museum’s collection and curatorial reach. Prior to his time at MoMA, he was curator at the Cabinet des Estampes at the Musée d’art et d’histoire in Geneva.
On his appointment, Cherix expressed his commitment to advancing MoMA’s mission: “The Museum has always been at the forefront of artistic innovation, amplifying the voices of artists worldwide and engaging diverse audiences. As we move toward our centennial, I am honoured to support MoMA’s exceptional team and ensure its legacy of embracing the evolving present continues to thrive.”
Glenn D. Lowry, who has worked alongside Cherix for over 15 years, praised his successor: “Christophe is an extraordinary curator and leader. His vision and expertise will undoubtedly steer MoMA into an exciting new era. In the months ahead, we will work closely to ensure a seamless transition.”
Cherix’s curatorial achievements at MoMA include major exhibitions such as “ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN” (2024), “Betye Saar: Legends of Black Girl’s Window” (2019), “Adrian Piper: A Synthesis of Institutions, 1965–2016” (2018), “Marcel Broodthaers: A Retrospective” (2016), “Yoko Ono: One Woman Show, 1960–1971” (2015), and “Print/Out” (2012), among others. He has played a critical role in securing major acquisitions for the museum, including the Merrill C. Berman Collection, the Herman and Nicole Daled Collection and Archives, and the Seth Siegelaub Collection and Archives.
Born in Switzerland, Cherix holds a license ès lettres from the University of Geneva. A Fellow of the Center for Curatorial Leadership’s Class of 2010, his expertise has been shaped by an international perspective, including a residency at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
Christophe Cherix © 2021 The Museum of Modern Art, New York. Photo by Peter Ross.