Ralph Rugoff to Step Down as Director of London's Hayward Gallery After Two Decades of Pioneering Leadership

Ralph Rugoff to Step Down as Director of London's Hayward Gallery After Two Decades of Pioneering Leadership

Ralph Rugoff, the esteemed curator and director of the Hayward Gallery, London’s iconic contemporary art space, announced his decision to step down in Spring 2026, closing an influential 20-year chapter. Under his visionary leadership, the gallery transformed into a global powerhouse renowned for its bold exhibitions and progressive programming that resonated internationally.

During his tenure beginning in 2006, Rugoff was responsible for curating a range of groundbreaking exhibits, including Kiss My Genders!—a critical exploration of gender and identity that marked a defining moment for the Hayward Gallery’s engagement with contemporary social discourse. His curatorial vision consistently balanced intellectual rigor with accessibility, cementing the institution’s reputation as a hub for fresh and diverse artistic voices.

Before joining the Hayward, Rugoff shaped his curatorial philosophy through roles such as director of San Francisco’s Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts and as a prolific writer for influential art publications including Artforum and Frieze. This rich background informed his exhibitions, which challenged conventions and expanded the dialogue around contemporary art practices.

The Hayward Gallery flourished under Rugoff’s direction with ambitious projects like Psycho Buildings: Artists Take On Architecture (2008) and Invisible: Art About the Unseen, 1957–2012 (2016), both of which invited audiences to rethink materiality and perception within art. Furthermore, Rugoff spearheaded an extensive international touring program, enabling the Hayward’s exhibitions to reach audiences from Berlin to Beijing, Sydney to Sharjah.

Elaine Bedell, CEO of the Southbank Centre, praised Rugoff’s “extraordinary passion and visionary leadership” that helped position the gallery as a “unique space within the global contemporary art scene.” Additionally, Mark Ball, Artistic Director of the Southbank Centre, lauded Rugoff for fostering exhibitions that are both “playful and interactive, yet deeply engaging,” reinforcing London’s stature as a major cultural capital.

In announcing his departure, Rugoff expressed his enduring affection for the Hayward Gallery, the artists he featured, and the diverse audiences who engaged with the exhibitions. He highlighted the democratic ethos of the gallery building, describing it as a unique forum concentrating aesthetic experience. Rugoff intends to pursue independent curatorial and writing projects after leaving.

The Southbank Centre has initiated an international search for Rugoff’s successor, with plans to appoint a new director in the coming year, signaling an exciting new phase for this pivotal institution.

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FAQ About Ralph Rugoff and the Hayward Gallery

Q: Who is Ralph Rugoff?
A: Ralph Rugoff is a celebrated curator and director known for transforming the Hayward Gallery into a globally influential space for contemporary art since 2006.

Q: What are some major exhibitions he curated?
A: Key shows include Kiss My Genders!, Invisible: Art About the Unseen, and retrospectives of artists like Kader Attia and Tracey Emin.

Q: What other roles has he held?
A: He previously directed the Wattis Institute for Contemporary Arts in San Francisco and contributed to leading art periodicals including Artforum and Frieze.

Q: When will he leave his post at the Hayward Gallery?
A: Rugoff will step down in Spring 2026.

Q: What are his plans afterward?
A: He plans to continue working as an independent curator and writer.

Q: How has Rugoff impacted London’s art scene?
A: Through innovative programming and an international touring initiative, he helped position London as a major contemporary art capital.

Q: How is the gallery looking to fill his position?
A: The Southbank Centre is conducting an international search for a new director to lead the Hayward into its next chapter.

Ralph Rugoff’s departure marks the end of an era for the Hayward Gallery and reflects the dynamic nature of leadership in contemporary art institutions, paving the way for new creative directions in London and beyond.

More on Ralph Rugoff and the Hayward Gallery on ARTnews | Southbank Centre Official Site | Venice Biennale 2019 Overview

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