Museum Cobra appoints Suzanne Wallinga as General Director, ushering in a new era of leadership that connects avant-garde legacy with contemporary art practices.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

AMSTELVEEN, NETHERLANDS–Museum Cobra, a leading institution for modern and contemporary art, has appointed Suzanne Wallinga as its new General Director. Paired with Financial Director Cor Dinkgreve, Wallinga will drive the museum’s mission forward, aligning it with the constantly evolving landscape of contemporary art. This leadership duo is expected to enhance the museum’s vision. Bove all, maintain its position as a hub for artistic innovation, education, and cultural engagement.

Suzanne Wallinga is a respected figure in the art world. She is known for her commitment to curating art that explores social, political, and environmental issues. Co-founder and former director of A Tale of a Tub in Rotterdam, Wallinga has successfully supported both emerging and established artists. The list includes Shezad Dawood, Ruth Buchanan, and Igshaan Adams. Her curatorial work consistently addresses global challenges through the lens of art, making her a well-suited leader for Museum Cobra.

In addition to her work at A Tale of a Tub, Wallinga has served in advisory roles for various prestigious institutions, including Sonsbeek, Stroom The Hague, and De Brakke Grond in Amsterdam. She has also held leadership positions at Stedelijk Museum Schiedam and Shimmer. Additionally, she held roles like Interim Director of Amsterdam Art and Artistic Director at TAG in The Hague. Wallinga’s extensive experience in curating and directing art programs has showcased her ability to blend art, philosophy, and community engagement. The capabilities will serve her well in her new role.

Museum Cobra: Preserving Avant-Garde Art

Established in 1995, Museum Cobra is devoted to the avant-garde Cobra movement, which thrived in Europe from 1948 to 1951. Key figures like Karel Appel, Constant, and Sonja Ferlov Mancoba broke away from traditional artistic norms, driving innovation and experimentation in their work. Museum Cobra’s collection of works from these influential artists is a vital resource for understanding the impact of the Cobra movement on modern art.

Along with its permanent collection, the museum continues to innovate through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events. These initiatives create a bridge between the avant-garde spirit of the Cobra movement and modern-day artistic practices.

Museum Cobra Appoints Suzanne Wallinga for a New Vision

Suzanne Wallinga brings a fresh perspective to her role as General Director. Her background in curating exhibitions that address pressing social issues aligns perfectly with Museum Cobra’s mission. One of her key priorities is to integrate modern themes like social justice, ecological concerns, and community involvement into the museum’s programming. By doing so, she hopes to strengthen the connection between the museum’s historical collection and contemporary art practices.

Wallinga is also passionate about expanding the museum’s reach by making art more accessible. She plans to engage underrepresented communities and foster discussions around important social issues through exhibitions and public programs.

Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Jerry Straub, expressed his excitement for Wallinga’s leadership, stating, “Suzanne’s approach to modern and contemporary art will bring fresh energy to Museum Cobra. Her entrepreneurial spirit and vision will help guide the museum into an exciting new era.”

The Next Chapter for Museum Cobra

With Suzanne Wallinga at the helm, Museum Cobra is ready for a new era that honors its roots in the Cobra movement while embracing contemporary artistic innovation. Her forward-thinking curatorial approach focuses on social and political issues. This fits seamlessly with the museum’s mission to inspire dialogue and foster critical thinking. Wallinga’s leadership will undoubtedly shape the museum’s future in exciting ways.

In addition to Wallinga’s vision, the appointment of Cor Dinkgreve as Financial Director brings added strength to the leadership team. His expertise in financial management will support the museum’s growth, ensuring that it continues to offer world-class exhibitions and programs.

Wallinga expressed her enthusiasm for this new role, saying, “This is an important time to expand the museum’s role as a space for creativity, dialogue, and connection. Art can foster understanding and reflect on our world today. I am excited to collaborate with artists and the community to build on the museum’s legacy.”

Engaging a Diverse Audience

A key goal of Suzanne Wallinga is to make Museum Cobra more inclusive. By engaging diverse communities, she hopes to foster a dialogue around critical social issues. She aims to curate exhibitions and programs that resonate with a broader audience, offering space for underrepresented voices in contemporary art. This vision aligns with the radical spirit of the Cobra movement. But more importantly, it ensures the museum’s continued relevance in today’s art scene.

Wallinga’s dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting emerging art forms will play a central role in her strategy. Museum Cobra will provide a platform for artists who challenge boundaries, fostering the next generation of creatives and thinkers.

Museum Cobra, Suzanne Wallinga and the Future

Suzanne Wallinga’s appointment as General Director signals an exciting new chapter for Museum Cobra.
She takes an innovative approach to curating socially relevant exhibitions. Her leadership experience strengthens this vision. Together, they will solidify the museum’s status as a vital hub for modern and
contemporary art. Wallinga will lead Museum Cobra to inspire, educate, and challenge its audience. The museum will continue offering groundbreaking exhibitions and programs.

• Featured Image: Suzanne Wallinga, Museum Cobra’s new General Director. Photo: Tengbeh Kamara.