The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) has appointed Kate Moomaw-Taylor as its new Chief Conservator. She assumed her role on June 25, 2025.
Director and CEO Alex Nyerges expressed his enthusiasm for Moomaw-Taylor’s leadership at a pivotal time for the museum, noting that she will oversee the care of VMFA’s extensive collection of over 50,000 artworks. “I’m delighted that Kate will lead the conservation department at a transformative time at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: the beginning of the largest expansion in the museum’s history,” Nyerges stated.
Moomaw-Taylor brings 18 years of experience in conserving modern and contemporary art, with expertise in sculpture, design objects, and time-based media. Before joining VMFA, she served as Senior Conservator of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Denver Art Museum since 2011.
Artistic Director and Chief Curator Dr. Michael Taylor praised Moomaw-Taylor’s qualifications: “Kate will advance the museum’s conservation efforts, ensuring the vital care of our greatest asset –– the works in our internationally-recognized permanent art collection.”
In addition to her practical experience, Moomaw-Taylor is a founding member of the Contemporary Art Network (CAN!) within the American Institute for Conservation (AIC). Her scholarly contributions include articles on plastic artworks treatment and participatory artworks care.
Her academic credentials include an M.A. in art history and an Advanced Certificate in Conservation from New York University’s Institute of Fine Arts. She also holds a B.A. from the University of Virginia.
Moomaw-Taylor expressed her excitement about her new role: “I’m honored and excited to be appointed to this role leading a stellar conservation department at such an esteemed institution as VMFA.”
The VMFA’s Conservation Department plays a crucial role in preserving art for future generations through various initiatives guided by ethical standards set by AIC.
The Susan and David Goode Center for Advanced Study in Art Conservation opened in 2010 and provides extensive facilities for research and training within VMFA.
As one of America’s largest comprehensive art museums, VMFA offers visitors access to a global collection spanning over 6,000 years. The upcoming McGlothlin Wing II expansion will further enhance its offerings when it opens in 2028.
