Nora Lawrence takes charge at Storm King Sculpture Park amid major changes
- Nora Lawrence will take over as Storm King Art Center's executive director starting in January 2025.
- This marks a historical leadership change as she becomes the first director from outside the founding Stern family.
- The transition follows a $53 million upgrade to the park intended to enhance public engagement and accessibility.
In New Windsor, New York, the Storm King Art Center, a renowned sculpture park, announced a pivotal change in its leadership set to take effect in January 2025. Nora Lawrence, the current artistic director and chief curator of the 500-acre outdoor museum, will replace John P. Stern as the institution's first executive director not from the founding family. This transition marks a significant moment in the organization’s history, with Lawrence's vision aiming to evolve the park into a more public-facing institution. Lawrence, who has been with Storm King since 2011, brings extensive experience, having previously worked at the Museum of Modern Art. Lawrence's appointment comes amidst the backdrop of considerable renovations to the campus, which include a $53 million upgrade intended to enhance accessibility and visitor experience. This renovation, including new entrance pavilions designed by heneghan peng architects and WXY, is expected to be completed by May 2025. The upgrades aim to welcome a broader audience and introduce a diverse range of art experiences, addressing both the legacy and contemporary relevance of the institution. The ongoing changes represent a shift in the institution's operational ethos towards inclusivity and public engagement, a direction supported by board member Adam D. Weinberg. Lawrence's involvement with the park has significantly enriched its programming, including a roster of exhibitions featuring both emerging and established artists. As part of her strategic vision for Storm King, she emphasizes the importance of balancing the organization’s historical roots while also making space for contemporary voices and perspectives in the art world. This focus on diversity in artistic representation is anticipated to expand the museum’s reach and relevance. The leadership change aligns with a broader trend within cultural institutions to integrate modern practices to attract new audiences. By appointing Lawrence, whom her colleagues describe as deeply committed to the space and respectful of its history, Storm King appears poised to navigate this transition effectively while honoring its storied heritage.