The Whitney Museum of American Art has recently appointed Kim Conaty as its new chief curator, a role previously held by Scott Rothkopf. Conaty, who has been the museum’s curator of drawings and prints since 2017, is known for her ability to create exhibitions that are both critically acclaimed and popular with visitors. In her new position, she will oversee the museum’s permanent collection, acquisitions, exhibitions, and conservation activities. One area Conaty plans to focus on is highlighting the work of Latino and Indigenous artists, as well as investing in emerging talent. Additionally, she intends to take a more deliberate approach to collecting, recognizing the cost of storing and preserving artworks. This appointment comes at a time of significant turnover for the Whitney Museum, with changes in leadership and curatorial positions. Rothkopf believes that Conaty’s sensitivity and intellectual sophistication will be invaluable as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the art world today.
Whitney Museum Names Chief Curator
Appointment of Kim Conaty as Chief Curator
The Whitney Museum of American Art has just announced the appointment of Kim Conaty as their new chief curator. Conaty, who has been serving as the museum’s curator of drawings and prints since 2017, will now take on the responsibility of steering the institution’s permanent collection and acquisitions, as well as its exhibitions and conservation activities. This is a significant role within the contemporary art world, and Conaty is well-suited to the position, given her reputation for creating shows that are both critically acclaimed and popular with museum-goers.
Responsibilities of the Chief Curator
As chief curator, Conaty’s main responsibilities will center around overseeing the museum’s permanent collection, managing acquisitions, and organizing exhibitions. These are crucial tasks that require a deep understanding of art history, as well as a keen eye for emerging talent. Conaty’s experience in curating and her ability to connect with both critics and the general public make her an ideal candidate for this role. Her previous exhibitions, such as “Edward Hopper’s New York” and the Ruth Asawa drawings exhibition, have been highly successful, showcasing her ability to create engaging and thought-provoking shows.
Focus on Latino and Indigenous Artists
One of Conaty’s key objectives as chief curator is to address the underrepresentation of Latino and Indigenous artists in the Whitney’s collection. She plans to curate exhibitions that specifically highlight the work of these artists and invest in emerging talent from these communities. This is an important step towards creating a more inclusive and diverse art landscape within the museum, and it reflects the growing recognition of the contributions of these marginalized groups to the American art scene.
Slowing Down the Pace of Collecting
In addition to her focus on diversity and inclusivity, Conaty also intends to slow down the pace of collecting at the Whitney. She acknowledges that acquiring new artworks comes with a cost, both financially and in terms of storage and preservation. By adopting a more deliberate approach, the museum can ensure that acquisitions align with its curatorial vision and budgetary constraints. This measured approach to collecting will benefit the institution in the long run, allowing for more thoughtful and intentional growth of the permanent collection.
Turnover at the Whitney Museum
Over the past few years, the Whitney Museum has experienced significant turnover in its leadership positions. The departure of longtime director Adam D. Weinberg, as well as the exit of curators David Breslin and Jane Panetta and chief advancement officer Pamela Besnard, has resulted in a need for new appointments. Scott Rothkopf, the current director, has been working to fill these roles and recently made significant changes, such as promoting Adrienne Edwards to a newly created leadership position. With Conaty now joining the team as chief curator, the Whitney is poised to move forward with fresh perspectives and renewed energy.
Controversy Surrounding Demian DinéYazhi’s Artwork
Just a few weeks ago, the Whitney Museum found itself embroiled in controversy over an artwork by Demian DinéYazhi’ that was part of the Whitney Biennial. The artist had included a “Free Palestine” message in a flickering neon sign, catching the museum off guard. This incident highlights the challenges that museums face in navigating sensitive and politically charged artistic expressions. Director Scott Rothkopf acknowledges that having someone like Kim Conaty, with her interpersonal sensitivity and intellectual sophistication, is crucial in addressing such situations. The museum is committed to embracing the complexities of the art world and engaging with the ideas of our time.
Navigating Challenges in the Future
As the new chief curator, Kim Conaty will play a vital role in navigating challenges that arise in the future. With her extensive experience in organizing exhibitions and her commitment to promoting underrepresented artists, Conaty is well-equipped to address controversies, foster dialogue, and curate shows that resonate with audiences. The Whitney Museum, under the leadership of Conaty and Rothkopf, is poised to continue pushing boundaries in contemporary art and fostering a more inclusive and diverse cultural landscape. With their combined expertise and passion, they will ensure that the museum remains at the forefront of the art world for years to come.
