CIMAM Mourns the Passing of Jay Levenson

CIMAM extends its sincere condolences on the passing of Jay Levenson (1948–2026), Director of the International Program at MoMA: The Museum of Modern Art, and a longstanding and devoted member of our CIMAM community.

For over 20 years, Jay was an active and faithful member of CIMAM, participating in our Annual Conferences and contributing to the professional exchange that defines our international network.

Since 1996, as Director of MoMA’s International Program, Jay led numerous initiatives dedicated to fostering global perspectives in modern and contemporary art.

Jay also played a vital role in the organization of the CIMAM 2008 Annual Conference in New York, hosted by MoMA and the Asia Society Museum titled The Shape of Memory: The Museum and Its Collections. Throughout the years, he remained a valued ambassador of CIMAM in the United States and internationally, attending numerous conferences and contributing generously to the dialogue and exchanges that continue to enrich CIMAM’s mission.

On behalf of CIMAM’s Board, Executive Office, and the CIMAM community, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His contribution to international museum practice leaves a lasting legacy.