“We are writing to you as valued members of the MOCA family to let you know about Paul Schimmel’s departure from MOCA. His resignation as chief curator is effective today and the attached announcement, drafted in partnership with Paul, is being released to the press.

Over the summer, Paul will continue working with MOCA on the upcoming exhibition Destroy the Picture: Painting the Void, 1949-1962 (September 29, 2012–January 7, 2013). In the future, Paul may work on MOCA exhibitions from time to time as a guest curator. Later in the fall, we will hold a celebration in honor of Paul and more formally acknowledge his considerable accomplishments by naming an exhibition space for him. We will be sure to keep you informed as those plans progress.

Over the past 22 years, Paul has been integral to building MOCA’s world-class permanent collection and developing groundbreaking exhibitions. His legacy provides an incredible foundation on which future programs can be built. Moving forward, Jeffrey Deitch will direct the curatorial program in his capacity as director in conjunction with the curatorial staff and internationally recognized guest curators.

In addition to announcing Paul’s resignation, we have made a few other changes in advance of our new fiscal year that are routine for non-profit institutions. There have been adjustments to staff and minor changes to the exhibition schedule and our education program. We feel it is important to take a balanced budget approach, matching expenses to anticipated revenues. This plan will ensure we can continue to serve as a leading contemporary art institution.

Thank you for your continued support of MOCA. We hope you will visit the museum this summer and take the time to enjoy its acclaimed exhibitions and exciting programs.”

The above statement was published on MOCA’s “The Curve” blog on June 29, 2012, with a link to a press release stating, “MOCA CHIEF CURATOR HONORED FOR 22-YEAR TENURE AS HE STEPS DOWN AND BECOMES INDEPENDENT CURATOR […] In recognition of his many contributions to MOCA, where Mr. Schimmel has been Chief Curator since 1990, the Board of Trustees announced the naming of The Paul Schimmel Exhibition Space at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA in his honor.”

You can download the full press release (PDF) at the link below.