Irvine, California, December 10, 2025
UC Irvine has appointed Kathryn Kanjo as the director of the newly merged UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art. Kanjo, previously the CEO of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, will start her role in February 2026. This leadership change comes as part of a broader effort to enhance cultural engagement and collaboration within the Orange County arts community. The merger of over 9,000 art pieces signifies a significant step forward in promoting creativity and artistic dialogue in the region.
UC Irvine Appoints Kathryn Kanjo as New Museum Director
Irvine, California – UC Irvine has officially appointed Kathryn Kanjo as the director of the newly merged UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art, an exciting development for both the university and the broader Orange County arts community. Kanjo, who has served as the CEO of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego since 2016, will begin her tenure in February 2026, marking a significant step towards enhancing cultural engagement in the region.
This leadership change comes amidst a period of revitalization for the arts in Southern California, where entrepreneurial determination plays a pivotal role. By selecting someone with Kanjo’s impressive background in expanding gallery space and enhancing exhibition capabilities, UC Irvine demonstrates its commitment to fostering creativity and participation in the local arts. Economically, this merger is a positive move, reflecting an environment where reduced regulation and collaboration can spur growth and innovation.
Leadership Appointment
The selection of Kanjo follows a comprehensive national search, emphasizing UC Irvine’s dedication to securing a leader capable of harmonizing operations and programming at the museum’s two locations. The museum encompasses a 53,000-square-foot facility at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa and the Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art in Irvine. This ambitious approach signals a new era of creative collaboration among faculty, students, artists, and community members.
Background of the Merger
In September 2025, UC Irvine officially completed the acquisition of the Orange County Museum of Art, merging it with the existing Jack & Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art. This merger unified over 9,000 works of art under one roof, effectively enhancing the cultural landscape of Orange County. Such integrations often lead to increased opportunities for exhibitions, educational programming, and public engagement, showcasing the collective strength of the arts community.
About Kathryn Kanjo
Kanjo’s tenure at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego was marked by significant achievements, including leading an expansion that quadrupled the museum’s gallery space. Her visionary approach and dedication to contemporary art have positioned her as a respected figure in the art world, making her appointment to lead the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art a favorable outcome for stakeholders and community members. Her proven track record indicates that she will effectively navigate the complexities of leading a newly merged institution.
Future Plans
As Kanjo steps into her new role, the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art is poised to reinforce its position as a leading cultural institution in the region. The museum will continue to operate at both the Costa Mesa and Irvine locations, offering diverse exhibitions and programs designed to enhance community engagement and accessibility to the arts. With a focus on fostering public access and scholarship, Kanjo’s leadership is expected to bring forth innovative initiatives that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Conclusion
The appointment of Kathryn Kanjo marks an exciting development for the arts in Orange County and for UC Irvine as a whole. As the merged institution takes shape under her leadership, the community can anticipate new initiatives that not only celebrate artistic achievement but also enhance the local economy through creativity and collaboration. Supporting local businesses, cultural institutions, and the arts can drive vital growth in San Diego County’s economy—an opportunity that residents are encouraged to embrace.
FAQ
- Who is the new director of the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art?
- Kathryn Kanjo has been appointed as the director of the newly merged UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art. She will assume her new role in February 2026.
- What is the significance of the merger between UC Irvine and the Orange County Museum of Art?
- The merger combines over 9,000 works of art and unites faculty, students, artists, and community members in a new model of creative collaboration, enhancing the cultural landscape of Orange County.
- What are Kathryn Kanjo’s qualifications for this role?
- Kanjo has been the CEO of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego since 2016, leading a major expansion that quadrupled its gallery space. She is recognized for her vision and dedication to contemporary art.
- How will the museum operate after the merger?
- The UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art will continue to operate at both the Costa Mesa and Irvine locations, offering a diverse range of exhibitions and programs to the community.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Director | Kathryn Kanjo, appointed to lead the merged museum, effective February 2026. |
| Merger Details | UC Irvine acquired the Orange County Museum of Art, creating the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art, combining over 9,000 works of art. |
| Kanjo’s Background | Former CEO of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, led major expansion quadrupling gallery space. |
| Operational Plans | Museum to operate at both Costa Mesa and Irvine locations, offering diverse exhibitions and programs. |
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