In a strategic move to reinforce internal talent and rejuvenate its leadership amidst recent challenges, the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) has appointed Coralie Claeysen-Gleyzon as its new chief curator. This decision marks the culmination of a meticulous search process, recognizing Claeysen-Gleyzon’s six years of dedicated service within the museum’s collections and curatorial departments.
The transition comes in the wake of the retirement of Hansen Mulford, the longstanding chief curator of OMA, who concluded his remarkable 42-year tenure quietly this March, as reported by the Orlando Sentinel. Mulford’s departure was unanticipated, leaving a significant vacuum in the museum’s curatorial leadership.
Claeysen-Gleyzon, originally from France and with an upbringing in Niger, Africa, brings a wealth of international experience to her new role. Joining OMA in January 2018, she has progressively ascended through various positions including associate curator, curator, and most recently, interim head of the collections and exhibitions department. During her tenure, Claeysen-Gleyzon has curated notable exhibitions such as the ongoing centennial retrospective and “Visual Conversations: Expressions of Individuality and Community” in 2020. Her extensive overseas engagements, including roles as gallery director in Doha, Qatar, and independent art adviser in Beirut, Lebanon, underscore her diverse and seasoned perspective in the art world.
The appointment of Coralie Claeysen-Gleyzon is significant as OMA continues to address the aftermath of the FBI raid on a controversial exhibition featuring paintings attributed to Jean-Michel Basquiat. The unravelling of the exhibition’s authenticity, compounded by revelations from a nine-year FBI investigation, triggered a series of leadership changes within the museum. Former director Aaron De Groft’s ousting and subsequent legal battles, alongside the departure of board chair Cynthia Brumback, underscored the turmoil faced by OMA.
Amidst these challenges, the museum has been steadfast in its commitment to transparency and community engagement. Cathryn Mattson, appointed as executive director and CEO last April, has spearheaded initiatives to rebuild trust and strengthen ties with the Orlando community. Efforts such as commissioning the Akerman law firm to investigate the Basquiat scandal reflect OMA’s proactive approach to addressing past grievances and fostering accountability.
In a statement, Mattson commended Claeysen-Gleyzon’s contributions and emphasized her deep-rooted connections within the Orlando arts and cultural landscape. Expressing optimism for the future, Mattson highlighted the collaborative potential between herself and Claeysen-Gleyzon as they steer OMA towards a new era of growth and resilience.
As Claeysen-Gleyzon assumes her pivotal role, she inherits both the opportunities and challenges inherent in leading one of Orlando’s premier cultural institutions. Her appointment signals a strategic pivot towards internal talent development and underscores OMA’s commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive arts community. With her vision and expertise, Claeysen-Gleyzon is poised to shape the cultural landscape of Orlando and further elevate OMA’s standing on the global stage.
