Philadelphia Art Museum Director Sasha Suda Ousted in Shocking Move

UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, Sasha Suda has been dismissed as the Director and CEO of the Philadelphia Art Museum (PhAM) effective immediately as of November 4. This abrupt decision was communicated via email following an emergency board meeting, just three years into her five-year contract and mere weeks after the museum’s controversial rebranding effort.

Details surrounding Suda’s termination remain murky, as the museum’s board cited her dismissal as being “for cause” without elaborating further. The PhAM has refrained from providing additional comments, labeling the situation as “an internal matter.” Meanwhile, Louis Marchesano, the Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and Conservation, will assume daily operations while a search for an interim director begins.

Suda, a Canadian art historian previously leading the National Gallery of Canada, faced criticism during her tenure for her fundraising strategies and lack of French language skills. She stepped into the role amid turmoil, following the resignation of her predecessor, Timothy Rub, who departed amid allegations of mishandling abuse reports. Under her leadership, PhAM struggled with post-pandemic recovery, including budget cuts and declining visitor numbers.

Less than a month after Suda’s appointment, museum staff conducted a historic 19-day strike for better contract terms, culminating in a new agreement ratified in October 2022. Tensions resurfaced in June 2023 when the union accused the museum of violating a contract provision regarding longevity pay increases, leading to additional protests.

The museum’s recent rebranding from the Philadelphia Museum of Art to the Philadelphia Art Museum, which cost around $250,000, has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Many questioned the necessity of the change, while Suda defended it as a reflection of how the community already referred to the institution.

Residents and art enthusiasts alike are left in shock over Suda’s sudden dismissal, raising questions about the future direction of the museum and its ongoing challenges. As the board navigates this unexpected leadership change, observers will be watching closely for the next steps and potential interim leadership appointments.

Officials and museum staff have not yet released a public statement addressing the implications of Suda’s departure, but the community’s reaction indicates widespread concern over the institution’s stability and future initiatives.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.