Richard Flood, Former New Museum Curator, Passes Away at Age 81
# Remembering Richard Flood: A Visionary Curator and Art Critic
Richard Flood, a distinguished curator, writer, and critic, passed away on February 16, 2024, at the age of 81. Renowned for his sharp wit, deep intellect, and keen curatorial vision, Flood made significant contributions to contemporary art through his work at prestigious institutions such as the New Museum, Walker Art Center, and MoMA PS1.
## A Life Dedicated to Art
Flood’s career spanned over four decades, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary art discourse. Born with an innate passion for the arts, he began his journey as the managing editor of *Artforum*, one of the most influential art magazines in the world. His editorial expertise and deep understanding of contemporary trends helped establish him as a leading voice in the field.
Following his work in journalism, he transitioned to curation, taking on key roles at the Barbara Gladstone Gallery and later at MoMA PS1. However, it was his tenure as the chief curator of the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis (from 1991 to 1999) that solidified his reputation as an innovative curator. One of his most notable curatorial projects at the Walker Art Center was *“Brilliant! New Art from London”* (1995), an exhibition showcasing 22 emerging British artists who would later achieve global recognition.
## Transformative Role at the New Museum
In 2005, Flood joined Manhattan’s New Museum as chief curator, overseeing several groundbreaking exhibitions that pushed the boundaries of contemporary art. His curatorial expertise was instrumental in shaping the museum’s programming and elevating its status as a leading institution for new and experimental art.
One of his most significant contributions was co-curating the New Museum’s inaugural exhibition at its 235 Bowery location in 2007. Titled *”Unmonumental: The Object in the 21st Century,”* the exhibition examined the relationship between sculpture and collage, presenting works by 30 contemporary artists. He also curated major exhibitions such as *“Double Album: Daniel Guzman and Stephen Shearer”* (2008), *“Rivane Neuenschwander: A Day Like Any Other”* (2010), and *“The Last Newspaper”* (2010–2011), showcasing his ability to connect diverse themes in innovative ways.
Flood transitioned to the role of director of special projects and curator-at-large in 2010, a position he held until his retirement in 2019. During this time, he co-founded *IdeasCity*, a free public initiative that brought together artists, writers, and activists to explore the intersection of art and urban living.
## A Mentor and Thought Leader
Beyond curating exhibitions, Flood was a mentor to many in the art community, inspiring younger generations of artists and curators. Colleagues remember him as an unconventional thinker with an eye for emerging talent. Corinne Erni, chief curator at the Parrish Art Museum and a mentee of Flood, described him as “endlessly curious, a brilliant curator, and writer with a great sense of humor.”
His impact extended beyond institutional exhibitions, as he actively engaged in publishing and art criticism. His book *Richard Flood: Notes From The Playground* (2017) compiled decades of his essays, reflecting his insightful observations on contemporary art.
## A Lasting Legacy
Flood’s passing represents a significant loss to the global art community. His contributions to contemporary art curation, criticism, and institutional development will continue to influence artists, curators, and scholars for years to come. His legacy lives on not only in the exhibitions he curated and the museums he shaped but also in the countless individuals he mentored and inspired along the way.
Richard Flood’s vision, humor, and boundless curiosity will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.