Local · September 28, 2026

Ann Temkin to Step Down as MoMA Chief Curator in January 2027

After 18 years as the Marie-Josée and Henry Kravis Chief Curator of Painting and Sculpture, Ann Temkin will step down in January 2027 and take on a new strategic advisory role at The Museum of Modern Art.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has announced that Ann Temkin will step down in January 2027 from her position as the Marie-Josée and Henry Kravis Chief Curator of Painting and Sculpture. Temkin has served in this role for 18 years, according to the announcement by Christophe Cherix, the David Rockefeller Director of MoMA. Her tenure as chief curator has spanned nearly two decades, during which she has overseen the museum’s painting and sculpture department.

Upon stepping down as chief curator, Temkin will assume a new role as Strategic Advisor to the Director. In this capacity, she will be involved in the planning of MoMA’s centennial initiatives, which are scheduled for 2029. This new position will focus on advising the museum’s leadership as they prepare for the institution’s 100th anniversary.

Christophe Cherix expressed gratitude for Temkin’s work, stating that everyone at MoMA is extremely grateful for her remarkable achievements as Chief Curator of Painting and Sculpture. He also acknowledged the work Temkin will continue to do with the museum in the coming years as she transitions to her new advisory role.

Cherix highlighted the challenge facing MoMA as it approaches its centennial: how to continually evolve alongside art, artists, and the world while maintaining the expertise of a major institution. He noted that Temkin has addressed this challenge throughout her tenure as chief curator, helping the museum adapt and grow.

Ann Temkin commented on her upcoming transition, saying that after being honored to serve as MoMA’s Chief Curator of Painting and Sculpture for 18 years, she looks forward to taking on the new role. She described the centennial as a moment for recollection, but also as an opportunity to look ahead and open imaginations to the future as the museum embraces its next phase.

Temkin’s new role as Strategic Advisor to the Director will specifically relate to the planning of MoMA’s centennial initiatives. Her experience and perspective are expected to contribute to the museum’s preparations for this milestone event in 2029.

A photograph of Ann Temkin, credited to Peter Ross, accompanied the announcement. The news was made public by MoMA, with the transition set to take place in January 2027, and Temkin’s advisory work to focus on the centennial plans for 2029.

Why it matters

Ann Temkin’s departure from the chief curator position after nearly two decades marks a significant moment for MoMA’s leadership in painting and sculpture. Her new advisory role will influence the museum’s centennial plans, ensuring that her deep knowledge and experience continue to guide MoMA’s evolution. This transition reflects the institution’s commitment to adapting to changing artistic landscapes while honoring its legacy.

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