Tate's new director Jessica Morgan steps in as an 'agent of change' for an institution that desperately needs a radical overhaul. While her credentials are impressive, the real question is whether she can break free from the gallery's comfortable grooves and address deep‑seated issues in programming and self‑critique.
Why Tate Needs Overhaul – And Why It Matters
Tate is a top‑heavy montage of four museums, grappling with a crisis of purpose. Its exhibitions have become chronologically parched, especially at Tate Britain, which rarely ventures before the Victorians. Meanwhile, Tate Modern suffers from unforced errors like the over‑hyped Frida Kahlo show and the dire Turbine Hall installation by Máret Ánne Sara. These failures reveal a systemic lack of internal questioning.
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The institution must scrutinise its aims: how it collects, exhibits, and engages with both old and new art. Without a radical rethink, it risks losing relevance and credibility.
Jessica Morgan: Agent of Change or More of the Same?
Morgan comes from leading the Dia Art Foundation in the US, where she earned high praise for curating contemporary art. Her earlier tenure at Tate Modern itself bolsters her understanding of the institution. Yet these very strengths may keep her locked in a groove Tate finds comfortable.
It is unlikely she will rush to mount a show on art and the Reformation, for instance. The challenge is to embrace older British art – from Tudor and Stuart times – alongside the cutting‑edge contemporary work that defines Tate Modern. Gainsborough’s upcoming show is a start, but a proper plan for the entire collection is needed.
Comparing Tate’s Current Challenges vs. Opportunities
| Challenge | Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Chronologically narrow exhibitions | Re‑engage with Tudor, Stuart, and Victorian art |
| Over‑hyped, problematic shows (e.g., Kahlo, Sara) | Implement pre‑mortem reviews before critic backlash |
| Lack of internal self‑questioning | Foster a culture of honest critique and accountability |
| Top‑heavy management structure | Streamline decision‑making across four museums |
Key Takeaways for Tate’s Future
- Embrace both old and new art – Morgan must plan for the full 500‑year collection, not just contemporary pieces.
- Establish a pre‑mortem process – Before major exhibitions launch, internal teams should stress‑test them for flaws.
- Encourage honest feedback – The recent unforced errors show that nobody raised the alarm; a culture shift is essential.
- Balance curatorial vision with institutional accountability – Agents of change need both authority and humility.
FAQ
Will Jessica Morgan actually change Tate?
What specific problems does Tate need to fix?
Why is Tate’s new director considered an agent of change?
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