The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City has appointed Melissa Chiu as its new director, starting September 1. After serving 12 years at the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Chiu will oversee the foundation's international outposts amid a challenging period for museums.

Chiu is replacing Mariët Westermann, who has been restructuring the institution’s global leadership team in preparation for its controversial Abu Dhabi outpost. The Guggenheim has faced financial instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic and layoffs during Richard Armstrong's tenure. Chiu will now lead the museum through these turbulent times.

As director of the Hirshhorn, Chiu transformed the institution by increasing fundraising, boosting attendance and launching new technology programs. She also acquired significant works from emerging artists like Theaster Gates and Mika Rottenberg. However, her efforts to bring reality TV into the art world with 'The Exhibit' were less successful.

Chiu's appointment is seen as a return to New York by an experienced leader who will now focus on artistic direction, programming, day-to-day operations, and finances for the Guggenheim. She has expressed her excitement about bringing joy and learning through art to all visitors.