Art Institute of Chicago Director Addresses Airplane Incident

James Rondeau calls the 2025 incident a 'very low moment' but says it presented opportunities for growth.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 11:07am

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In a new interview, James Rondeau, the president and director of the Art Institute of Chicago, spoke frankly about a bizarre incident on an airplane in 2025 where he began taking his clothes off. Rondeau went on voluntary leave for a month and a half following the incident, which he described as a 'very low moment both personally and professionally.' However, he said the experience presented opportunities for him to focus on work-life balance and wellness. Rondeau also hinted at plans for the museum to expand its exhibition space to showcase more of its modern, contemporary, and Surrealist art collections.

Why it matters

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most widely visited and largest art museums in the U.S. Rondeau's candid discussion of the airplane incident and his plans for the museum's future are significant, as they provide insight into the leadership and direction of this prominent cultural institution.

The details

In April 2025, Rondeau was on a plane from Chicago to Munich when he began taking his clothes off, reportedly after drinking alcohol and taking prescription medication. Police were called to the plane, and Rondeau went on voluntary leave for a month and a half. The museum's board later expressed confidence in Rondeau's leadership and ability to continue as president and director.

  • In April 2025, the airplane incident occurred.
  • Rondeau went on voluntary leave for a month and a half following the incident.
  • In May 2025, the board issued a statement expressing confidence in Rondeau's leadership.
  • Rondeau is now celebrating his 10th year as the museum's leader.

The players

James Rondeau

The president and director of the Art Institute of Chicago, who has led the museum for 10 years.

Art Institute of Chicago

One of the most widely visited and largest art museums in the United States, located in Chicago, Illinois.

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What they’re saying

“As cliché as it is, every challenge is an opportunity, and that presented a number of opportunities for me to move forward with a healthy work-life balance and an attentive understanding to wellness.”

— James Rondeau, President and Director, Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago Star Tribune and WBEZ)

“We have very concrete aspirations. We do not have an approved building project.”

— James Rondeau, President and Director, Art Institute of Chicago (Chicago Star Tribune and WBEZ)

What’s next

Rondeau hinted at plans for the Art Institute of Chicago to expand its exhibition space to showcase more of its modern, contemporary, and Surrealist art collections, but the museum does not yet have an approved building project.

The takeaway

The Art Institute of Chicago's director's candid discussion of a past personal incident and his vision for the museum's future expansion demonstrate the institution's commitment to transparency and continuous improvement, even in the face of challenges.