Smithsonian Director Departs for Guggenheim Museum

Melissa Chiu leaves Hirshhorn Museum for top role at iconic New York art institution.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:32am

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An abstract, high-contrast close-up photograph of luxurious, metallic gold and silver textures, capturing the glamour and prestige of a renowned art museum.The Guggenheim's gleaming, iconic architecture and world-renowned art collection will soon be under new leadership.NYC Today

Melissa Chiu, the director of the Smithsonian's Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C., has announced that she is leaving her position to become the new director of the prestigious Guggenheim Museum in New York City.

Why it matters

The move represents a significant shift in the leadership of two of the world's most renowned art museums. Chiu's departure from the Smithsonian is seen as a loss for the institution, while her appointment at the Guggenheim is viewed as a major coup for the New York museum.

The details

Chiu has served as the director of the Hirshhorn Museum since 2014. During her tenure, she has overseen a number of high-profile exhibitions and initiatives that have helped raise the museum's profile. Her decision to leave the Smithsonian for the Guggenheim is seen as a reflection of the Guggenheim's prestige and the opportunity to lead one of the world's most iconic art institutions.

  • Chiu has been the director of the Hirshhorn Museum since 2014.
  • Chiu announced her departure from the Smithsonian on April 10, 2026.

The players

Melissa Chiu

The outgoing director of the Smithsonian's Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, who has been appointed as the new director of the Guggenheim Museum in New York City.

Guggenheim Museum

One of the world's most prestigious art museums, located in New York City, known for its iconic architecture and renowned collection of modern and contemporary art.

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

A Smithsonian museum in Washington, D.C. that focuses on modern and contemporary art, known for its innovative exhibitions and programming.

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What they’re saying

“The Guggenheim is an extraordinary institution. It is one of the major museums in our field. It was never part of my decision-making process.”

— Melissa Chiu, Outgoing Director, Hirshhorn Museum

The takeaway

Chiu's move from the Smithsonian to the Guggenheim represents a significant shift in the leadership of two of the world's most prestigious art museums, reflecting the Guggenheim's continued prominence and the ongoing evolution of the museum landscape.