Open Letter Criticizes MAMBO's Handling of Chief Curator Departure

An open letter addressed to the Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogotá (MAMBO) criticizes the institution's communication regarding the departure of Chief Curator and Artistic Director Eugenio Viola. The letter, dated February 20, 2026, and signed by numerous cultural figures, expresses concern over the museum's lack of transparency. It references a board communication from February 6, 2026, which announced Viola's exit without providing a public explanation. The signatories argue that this ambiguous statement, disseminated via social media with comments blocked, contradicts principles of public accountability. They note that Viola led the museum for over seven years, during which time he enhanced its international profile and revitalized its curatorial and educational programs. The letter does not challenge the administrative authority of the board but questions the ethical implications of its opaque decision-making process. It calls for a clear, reasoned public explanation from the MAMBO board to maintain institutional credibility and trust with the cultural community. The document reflects broader concerns about transparency in public cultural institutions.