Metropolitan Museum Moving Forward With a Fresh Perspective

An article in the WSJ Magazine “MET TO THE MAX”( issue 135), interviews Max Hollein , the director at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. This article offers insight into how he is moving the Met forward. A while back I listened to Hollein interview Leonard Lauder and his passion made me want to follow his path. (Max Hollein-Leonard Lauder Interview)

There are a few take-aways that I believe are incredibly relevant for institutions , heritage brands, architects and many more.

• The WSJ article states “Hollein and his curators are keen to rethink the ways non-Western works are shown” , surrounding them with more contemporary environments.

  This will surely create freshness in an unexpected way as well as draw new eyes upon these exhibits.

• Hollein also wants ALL of the independent curatorial departments to work together, across departments. This is entirely applicable to any organization. It doesnt have to be decisions by committee, rather it becomes varied creative perspectives coming together…..that’s powerful!

“If you learn too much and listen too much, you go deeper and deeper into the history of this institution. At some point you almost suffocate; you’re not able to move foward. And so, finding that proper balance is a challenge.”

Max Hollein- Director Metropolitan Museum of Art

Last, but not least, it is all about listening and asking questions , but always keeping a balance with enough room to move forward as listening too much can keep you frozen in the present.