The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth has appointed Halona Norton-Westbrook as its new director, succeeding Marla Price, who announced her retirement last year after more than 30 years in the role. Norton-Westbrook, who will begin her tenure on July 1, joins the Fort Worth museum from the Honolulu Museum of Art, where she has served as president and CEO since January 2020. In a statement, Norton-Westbrook expressed her enthusiasm for the new position, saying, “The Modern is a museum of extraordinary ambition and impact, and I am honored to lead it into the future.
Museums have the power to foster joy, reflection, and meaningful conversation. I look forward to working alongside the museum’s talented team and dedicated community to expand its reach, deepen its engagement, and continue its tradition of presenting art of the highest quality.”
Rafael G. Garza, president of the Modern’s board of trustees, praised Norton-Westbrook’s appointment, stating, “Halona Norton-Westbrook brings an extraordinary combination of vision, leadership, and a deep commitment to art.
Her impactful track record of strategic thinking, community engagement, and curatorial excellence makes her the ideal dynamic leader to guide the Modern into its next chapter.”
Norton-Westbrook’s appointment comes during a challenging time for the Modern, as the museum faces scrutiny over child pornography allegations involving decades-old images by photographer Sally Mann. The images were part of the “Diaries of Home” exhibition, which closed on Feb. 2.
Norton-Westbrook to lead museum
Police have not filed charges, and civil liberties groups are urging the return of the photos to their owner. Norton-Westbrook holds a doctorate from the University of Manchester and has extensive experience in museum leadership.
During her tenure at the Honolulu Museum of Art, she successfully navigated the institution through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and led significant developments, including the revitalization of its historic art school and the strengthening of its collection. In 2023, Norton-Westbrook emphasized the importance of the arts, stating, “The arts contribute to a holistic, fulfilling life. As humans, we need time for reflection and appreciation of other cultures and viewpoints.
We need time to experience beauty to heal and process things, and I think the museum plays a critical role in providing that space for people.”
Prior to her role in Honolulu, Norton-Westbrook served as the curator of modern and contemporary art at the Toledo Museum of Art. The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, founded in 1892, is located at 3200 Darnell St. in Fort Worth’s Cultural District.
Norton-Westbrook will be tasked with leading the museum into the future, building upon its remarkable legacy within the Fort Worth community and continuing its evolution as a dynamic cultural hub of international significance.