Effective July 13, Michelle Millar Fisher will take the helm as Chief Curator of Cooper Hewitt, overseeing a permanent collection of over 215,000 objects and five curatorial departments, according to The Architect’s Newspaper and Cooperhewitt.
A new leader is stepping into a role with immense institutional history, but is expected to forge a distinct path forward for design curation.
Therefore, Cooper Hewitt's upcoming exhibitions and acquisitions are likely to reflect a blend of established institutional values and Fisher's distinct curatorial vision.
The Chief Curator's Mandate
As Chief Curator, Fisher will lead Cooper Hewitt’s five curatorial departments and conservation team, stewarding a permanent collection of over 215,000 objects, according to Cooperhewitt. This role extends beyond mere oversight; it demands a visionary approach to how these extensive holdings are presented and interpreted, fundamentally shaping public engagement with design history.
A Quarter-Century Shift
Fisher succeeds Matilda McQuaid, who retires after 24 years at the museum, reports Hyperallergic. This transition marks the end of a long and influential era. Fisher is not merely filling a vacancy; she is tasked with re-energizing a curatorial vision largely consistent for a quarter-century, a significant challenge for any new leader aiming to redefine the museum's public face.
The Smithsonian Context
Fisher's appointment as chief curator at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, as noted by Hyperallergic, elevates her role to one of national significance. Her leadership will not only shape the museum's internal direction but also influence the broader discourse on design within a prominent national institution, potentially setting new standards for how design is perceived across the country.
