Jessica Morgan's appointment as the new director of Tate marks a significant turning point for the renowned arts organization. With a challenging financial landscape, low staff morale, and fluctuating visitor numbers, the pressure is on for Morgan to lead Tate through a transformative phase. Her return to the organization, where she previously worked as a curator for over a decade, brings a sense of continuity and a fresh perspective. The question remains: How will she navigate the complex issues facing Tate and shape its future direction?
Morgan's appointment was a unanimous choice, with her reputation as a talented curator and fundraiser preceding her. Her time at Dia Art Foundation, where she led the organization since 2015, showcased her ability to transform museums and place artists and the public at the heart of their operations. However, her wages at Dia were a topic of discussion, with some suggesting they were substantially higher than the £220,000-£225,000 earned by her predecessor, Maria Balshaw, at Tate. Despite this, Tate's chair, Roland Rudd, confirmed that Morgan accepted a significant pay cut to take on the role, emphasizing her commitment to the organization's mission.
One of the key challenges Morgan will face is raising staff morale, which has been a concern following rounds of redundancies and restructuring during the pandemic. The 'culture war' battles have also left a mark on the organization, with one senior staffer describing the morale as 'on the floor'. Morgan's ability to foster a positive and inclusive work environment will be crucial in addressing these issues.
Tate's financial exposure, with its four sites spread across the country, adds another layer of complexity. The organization's success in raising funds and navigating the current economic climate will be a significant test for Morgan. Her experience in fundraising and developing talent from diverse regions will be invaluable in this regard.
The appointment of Morgan also raises questions about Tate's future direction. Since the departure of Nicholas Serota, who created Tate Modern and held the position for 28 years, the organization has been searching for a new sense of purpose. Morgan's role will be to guide Tate towards a new path, one that builds on its rich history and contemporary relevance.
In conclusion, Jessica Morgan's appointment as the new director of Tate is a pivotal moment for the organization. With a challenging financial landscape, low staff morale, and the need to redefine its direction, Morgan's leadership and vision will be crucial in shaping Tate's future. Her commitment to the arts and her ability to foster change will be tested as she embarks on this new chapter at the helm of one of the world's foremost institutions for international modern and contemporary art and British art.
