The general director and chief curator of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC), John Zeppetelli, announced Tuesday that he will leave his position in 2024. This departure comes as the museum’s expansion work faces significant challenges. cost overruns.
In a message published on the museum’s website, Mr. Zeppetelli explains that he is leaving the position he has held for more than 10 years to “explore new possibilities”.
“I am convinced that the Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art will continue to prosper and evolve under its new management, supported by an exceptional and dedicated board of directors,” he added, without specifying when exactly he will hand over his ownership. general director’s seat.
On its Facebook page, the Museum of Contemporary Art praised its results, citing among other things the very popular exhibition Leonard Cohen: A Breach in All Things in 2018. “It has also ensured that art is more accessible through a multitude of educational activities, intended for varied audiences and contributed to the enrichment of the Museum’s collection, by making “acquisition of remarkable works,” was also mentioned.
John Zeppetelli launched the project to expand the museum, located in the entertainment district. The MAC, which will celebrate its 60th anniversary next year, was temporarily relocated to premises in Place Ville-Marie in the summer of 2021. And this, at least until 2027, two years later provided that.
The work is running behind schedule and costs have skyrocketed. The planned budget increased from 44 million in 2018 to 116.5 million this summer, after the two levels of government decided to increase their financial participation.
Many in the community are now openly criticizing the project, fearing that these significant investments are not worth it.
In 2014, when the first discussions around the expansion project began, it was planned that the MAC would gain 50% in surface area. Gold, The Press revealed in September that ambitions have been significantly reduced since then. Today, showroom space is expected to increase by only 28%.