Anne Collins Smith Makes History as Chief Curator at NOMA: A Bold Step for Diversity and Women's Leadership in the Art World

“Anne Collins Smith is an accomplished curator, art historian, and museum leader, and we are thrilled to welcome her to NOMA in this crucial position.”- NOMA, 2025.

PHOTO CREDIT: TAYLOR HUNTER, COURTESY OF THE NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART.

In a groundbreaking move for both the art world and New Orleans, Anne Collins Smith was named the Chief Curator of the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), making history as the first Black individual to lead the museum's curatorial department. This appointment is not just a professional milestone for Smith but also a powerful statement on diversity, inclusion, and the evolving role of women in leadership positions within cultural institutions.

PHOTO CREDIT: TAYLOR HUNTER, COURTESY OF THE NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART.

Anne Collins Smith's appointment comes at a pivotal time, coinciding with Women’s History Month, a month dedicated to celebrating the contributions of women across all sectors of society. Smith's ascension to this esteemed role is a reminder of the importance of elevating diverse voices in leadership, especially within spaces traditionally dominated by a limited range of perspectives. As the art world continues to wrestle with questions of representation, her leadership marks a turning point in what has historically been an underrepresented space for both Black individuals and women.

This is not just about diversity for the sake of diversity—it's about reshaping the future of art institutions. Smith's expertise, commitment to inclusive storytelling, and dedication to curating art that speaks to a broader spectrum of experiences align perfectly with the shifting landscape of global cultural conversations. Under her leadership, NOMA is poised to reimagine its role as a champion for artists of diverse backgrounds, particularly those whose works challenge the status quo and highlight underrepresented histories.

The timing of this appointment also speaks volumes about the ongoing evolution of the art industry and its growing business focus. The art world is increasingly recognizing the commercial and cultural significance of diversity—both in the artworks it showcases and the leadership that curates them. For NOMA, this appointment may pave the way for more strategic collaborations with Black and women artists, creating new avenues for audience engagement and revenue generation. It's not just a win for the museum but also for the broader art market that has yet to fully embrace the immense potential that diverse leadership can unlock.

Smith's appointment also has a broader ripple effect beyond the museum world. The business and cultural sectors are increasingly understanding the power of inclusive leadership to drive innovation, shape public perception, and diversify revenue streams. NOMA's recognition of Smith's talent and vision is a reflection of the increasing importance placed on appointing leaders who truly reflect the communities they serve. It sets a new standard for other institutions to follow, particularly those in cities with diverse populations, like New Orleans.

For women, particularly women of color, Smith’s appointment is a beacon of hope and a reminder that systemic change is possible, even in traditionally conservative industries. Her promotion not only breaks barriers for Black professionals but also sets the stage for more women to ascend to similar leadership roles within the art world.

New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

As we reflect on this important development during Women's History Month, we recognize that the art world's landscape is slowly but surely changing. The leadership of figures like Anne Collins Smith is not just about making history—it’s about shaping the future. By giving women and Black leaders the space to thrive, institutions like NOMA are opening doors for future generations of artists, curators, and cultural innovators to leave their mark on history.