ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

MAM Rio Appoints Keyna Eleison and Pablo Lafuente as New Artistic Directors

institutional · 2026-04-23

The Museu de Arte Moderna do Rio de Janeiro has announced the appointment of Keyna Eleison and Pablo Lafuente as its new artistic directors. This decision follows an international search process conducted by the museum to fill the artistic leadership position. The museum initiated a global call for applications for the artistic director role, seeking candidates from diverse backgrounds and international perspectives. Keyna Eleison brings her expertise as a curator and cultural researcher with significant experience in contemporary art and Afro-Brazilian cultural practices. Pablo Lafuente contributes his background as a curator and writer with extensive international experience, having worked with numerous institutions across Europe and Latin America. Their joint appointment represents a significant shift in the museum's leadership structure, introducing a collaborative model for artistic direction. The museum's decision to conduct an international search reflects its commitment to bringing global perspectives to its programming and institutional development. Both directors will be responsible for shaping the museum's artistic vision, exhibition programming, and collection strategies moving forward. The announcement marks a new chapter for MAM Rio as it seeks to strengthen its position within both the Brazilian and international art scenes.

Key facts

  • MAM Rio announced new artistic directors
  • Keyna Eleison appointed as artistic director
  • Pablo Lafuente appointed as artistic director
  • International search conducted for the position
  • Museum made global call for applications
  • Both directors bring curatorial expertise
  • Appointment follows international recruitment process
  • New leadership structure implemented at museum

Entities

Artists

  • Keyna Eleison
  • Pablo Lafuente

Institutions

  • Museu de Arte Moderna do Rio de Janeiro
  • MAM Rio

Locations

  • Rio de Janeiro
  • Brazil

Sources