Kerry Brougher is to step down as director of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Brougher’s return to the art world comes as the project enters the final stages of construction.
Brougher, who has helmed the project for the past five years, has been named founding director by the museum’s board.
The Academy Museum has confirmed that it will ensure a smooth transition to a new director as the search begins.
“It has been a privilege for me to work with the museum’s board of trustees, the great Renzo Piano, my colleagues, and of course you – our good friends and supporters, with whom we are creating this unprecedented Museum,” Brougher said in a statement.
Academy Museum close to completing construction
“We are just weeks away from completing construction of the buildings, ending the first phase of this project, and our collection has grown substantially.
“Many of the exhibitions, including Miyazaki and Regeneration, will be the first of their kind. I’m very proud of the work done by our amazing team. Now is the right time for me to pass the baton.”
The $388 million Academy Museum of Motion Pictures was originally scheduled to open this year, and recently revealed the exhibitions that will be available when it opens.
However, the date was pushed back to 2020. The attraction has faced various difficulties, including fundraising challenges and cost overruns.
‘Creating the best possible motion picture museum’
“We thank Kerry for his dedicated service on behalf of the museum,” said the Academy Museum board in a statement.
“His work over the last five years on the museum’s construction and in-depth collections well positions us to move into the next phase of this ambitious project.
“Kerry’s strong curatorial team will continue to work with us toward the museum’s opening, and a search for a new museum director will begin shortly.
“Our primary goal remains to create the best possible motion picture museum for visitors.”
