Aimee Ng Takes the Helm as Chief Curator of the Frick Collection

The Frick Collection in New York has appointed Aimee Ng as its new chief curator, effective this November. Ng, currently serving as the museum’s John Updike Curator, will succeed Xavier F. Salomon, who has held the position since 2014. Salomon is set to transition to the role of director at Lisbon’s Calouste Gulbenkian Museum early next year, following the retirement of its outgoing director.

In a statement regarding Ng’s appointment, Axel Rüger, director of the Frick, praised her extensive knowledge and ability to engage audiences. “Aimee is a remarkable colleague and scholar,” he said. “It has been a joy working with her throughout our reopening and first year back at the Frick’s renovated home.”

Since joining the Frick in 2015, Ng has made significant contributions to the museum’s exhibitions, focusing on Italian Renaissance artists such as Andrea del Sarto and Giovanni Battista Moroni. She co-curated the exhibition “Barkley L. Hendricks: Portraits at the Frick” alongside Antwaun Sargent during the museum’s time at the Breuer Building while it underwent renovations. This year, she also played a key role in the exhibition “Vermeer’s Love Letters,” which was organized in collaboration with guest curator Robert Fucci following the Frick’s reopening at its Fifth Avenue location.

Ng’s academic credentials include a PhD in art history from Columbia University and a fellowship at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York. Reflecting on her tenure, she stated, “It has been a privilege to work with the Frick’s extraordinary collection, staff, and community these past ten years.” She emphasized her commitment to maintaining the museum’s unique identity while reaching contemporary audiences.

Curatorial Philosophy and Future Goals

In an interview with Artforum earlier this year, Ng articulated her curatorial philosophy. She expressed her initial frustration with the term “curated” being used in various contexts outside of art. However, her experiences with fellow curators across the country have broadened her perspective. “For me, curating is simply taking care of art in the fullest sense, including connecting people with its stories,” she explained.

Ng’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the Frick Collection. Following its recent renovation and reopening, the museum has positioned itself as a prominent destination for art enthusiasts in New York City. Ng expressed her excitement about leading the curatorial department, stating, “I look forward to serving our ever-broadening audiences while preserving the Frick’s unique identity and character.”

With Ng at the helm, the Frick Collection is poised to continue its legacy of curatorial excellence while adapting to the evolving landscape of contemporary art engagement. As she steps into her new role, the art community eagerly anticipates the fresh perspectives and exhibitions that will emerge under her leadership.