Lisa Phillips, who has served as the director of the New Museum of Contemporary Art in New York City for many years, has announced her departure from the institution. Phillips has been a pivotal figure in shaping the museum's direction and establishing its reputation as one of the leading contemporary art venues in the United States.
During her tenure at the New Museum, Phillips oversaw significant growth and transformation of the institution. She played a crucial role in the museum's relocation to its current building on the Bowery in Lower Manhattan, which opened in 2007 and was designed by the Tokyo-based architectural firm SANAA. Under her leadership, the museum expanded its programming and gained international recognition for its cutting-edge exhibitions and support of emerging artists.
Phillips' departure marks the end of an era for the New Museum, which has become known for its focus on contemporary art and its commitment to showcasing work by artists who have not yet received major museum recognition. The museum's triennial exhibition, which Phillips helped establish, has become one of the most important surveys of emerging international contemporary art.
The New Museum board will now begin the process of searching for Phillips' successor, who will be tasked with continuing the institution's mission of supporting contemporary artists and maintaining its position as a leading voice in the contemporary art world. The transition is expected to take place over the coming months as the museum prepares for its next chapter.
