Modernizing the Modern!

The reopened galleries will boast a number of new acquisitions.  In addition to the acquisition, the museum has been actively deaccessioning works in order to reshape its collection, attracting some controversy for shedding such valuable paintings as Picasso's 1909 Houses on the Hill, and Pollock's Number 12, 1949.  The sales have enabled the department to acquire works like Jasper John's Diver (1962-63), Bacon's Triptych (1991), and Picasso's pregnant woman (1950).

From its inception, the museum has accepted gifts only on the condition that any work could be deaccessioned at any time.  "The singular strength of our collection has been the ability on occasion to trade a near masterpiece for an even better one," Lowry says.  Insiders say one thing is certain, however: this won't be MoMA's last expansion.  The museum has already acquired two additional properties on the block.  The opening of the new building is not an end point.  It's a new beginning.  Things will start changing the next day.

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