Press Room

New York, NY (January 19, 2017)

The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) today announced that Jorge Daniel Veneciano will resign as Nanette L. Laitman Director as of January 31. A scholar of art and political theory with a long-standing commitment to increasing inclusiveness and diversity within cultural institutions, he will shift his focus to writing and consulting at the intersection of cultural policy, immigrant rights, and civic engagement. Veneciano, who joined the Museum in October of last year, will consult with MAD to ensure continuity as the Board of Trustees undertakes a search for a new Director. Board Chair Michele Cohen will serve as interim Director.

“Current political events compel me to turn my attention to pressing needs in the cultural sector,” said Veneciano, who is at work on a book about the social relevance of cultural institutions in “securing civility in uncivil times.” “I remain a great admirer of the Museum of Arts and Design, and I am confident that it will be in good hands going forward.”

“We appreciate Daniel’s contributions to the Museum,” said Cohen. “Though we are sorry to see him go, we understand and respect his decision. On behalf of MAD’s Trustees, staff, and audiences, I wish him well on his next steps.”

ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF ARTS AND DESIGN

The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) champions contemporary makers across creative fields, presenting artists, designers, and artisans who apply the highest level of ingenuity and skill to their work. Since the Museum’s founding in 1956 by philanthropist and visionary Aileen Osborn Webb, MAD has celebrated all facets of making and the creative processes by which materials are transformed, from traditional techniques to cutting-edge technologies. Today, the Museum’s curatorial program builds upon a rich history of exhibitions that emphasize a cross-disciplinary approach to art and design, and reveals the workmanship behind the objects and environments that shape our everyday lives. MAD provides an international platform for practitioners who are influencing the direction of cultural production and driving twenty-first-century innovation, fostering a participatory setting for visitors to have direct encounters with skilled making and compelling works of art and design. The Museum will be celebrating its Diamond Jubilee 60th Anniversary this year.