As a cultural worker and someone deeply invested in the arts, I am disheartened by the recent announcement of MoMA’s new director, Christophe Cherix. Despite Mr. Cherix's tenure at MoMA since 2007 as the prints and drawings curator, one has to question if the required knowledge and experience are present with respect to the directorial position. Furthermore, the absence of a PhD--a typical benchmark for directing some of the world's most prestigious museums--only intensifies my concerns. Like many others passionate about art, I had anticipated the museum's leadership to rise and meet the standards its reputation warrants.

The arts is an expansive field that thrives on a rich diversity of backgrounds and experiences, and this diversity is best harnessed by leaders who have themselves traversed the breadth of this field with a depth of conviction and scholarship. Dr. Glenn Lowry, MoMA's previous director, was one such leader, esteemed for his competent and skilled directorship for over two decades.

Please join me in demanding that the MoMA reconsider this appointment, and instead select a candidate who brings a robust academic background and a diversely informed experience to the table. The arts deserve nothing less. Kindly sign this petition to signal your support for higher standards at the prestigious MoMA.