The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art has announced John K. Lapiana as its new director and Heran Sereke-Brhan as deputy director. This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for the museum, which has long been a vital institution for celebrating and preserving the artistic and cultural heritage of Africa.

Who are the new leaders?

John K. Lapiana has worked with the Smithsonian Institution for over 20 years, serving in various leadership roles. Most recently, he acted as interim director of the National Museum of African Art for two years, guiding the institution through a challenging transitional period. During his tenure, he spearheaded several key initiatives:

Overseeing the museum’s staffing and strategic planning for its upcoming 60th anniversary.

Enhancing visitor experiences to engage diverse audiences.

Leading the repatriation of Benin bronzes to Nigeria, a groundbreaking move in the ongoing global conversation about returning looted artifacts to their countries of origin.

Heran Sereke-Brhan brings a fresh perspective with her background in Ethiopian social and political history. She previously served as the executive director of the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, where she championed initiatives supporting diverse artists and cultural institutions. Her expertise in African history and arts, coupled with her leadership in arts consulting, positions her to help the museum evolve into a dynamic hub for both traditional and contemporary African art.

Why does this leadership change matter?

The National Museum of African Art is the only national museum in the United States dedicated to the collection, exhibition, conservation, and study of African arts. Situated on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the museum showcases over 12,000 objects, ranging from centuries-old artifacts to cutting-edge contemporary works.

Leadership transitions like this offer opportunities for reflection and growth. With Lapiana’s institutional expertise and Sereke-Brhan’s rich cultural insights, the museum is well-positioned to:

Reimagine its approach to African art by forging stronger connections with artists and communities in Africa.

Address long-standing critiques about how African art is framed in Western institutions.

Expand its influence beyond traditional museum walls through collaborations, digital initiatives, and global outreach.

The repatriation of Benin bronzes under Lapiana’s interim leadership is particularly noteworthy, as it reflects a broader shift in the museum world toward acknowledging and addressing colonial legacies. This proactive stance has earned the museum respect in both academic and cultural circles and sets the stage for more bold moves under this new leadership.

A vision for the future

As the museum approaches its 60th anniversary, this leadership duo has the opportunity to redefine what it means to celebrate African art in a global context. Their vision can expand the narrative beyond artifacts to encompass the vibrancy and diversity of African creativity today. By bridging historical significance with modern relevance, they can create a space that honors Africa’s past while celebrating its dynamic present.

The museum’s plans under Lapiana and Sereke-Brhan include:

Hosting new exhibitions that highlight both traditional and emerging African art forms.

Increasing accessibility through innovative programming and community engagement.

Strengthening ties with African nations to ensure authentic and collaborative storytelling.

As Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III noted, this leadership change combines institutional knowledge with fresh perspectives, offering a chance to not only enhance the museum’s reputation but also redefine its impact on global audiences.

What do you think?

How do you see this leadership change influencing the future of African art in U.S. institutions? Share your thoughts and engage with us as we explore this exciting new chapter for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art.

Source: Artnet News, The Smithsonian Institution