Eugenio Viola, formerly the artistic director of the Museo de Arte Moderno de Bogotá (MAMBO), has brought to light a contentious situation surrounding the premature termination of his contract. Viola asserts that his dismissal stems directly from his efforts to highlight and address concerns regarding the declining work environment within the institution. This revelation has cast a shadow over the museum's recent announcement of his departure, prompting questions about the underlying reasons for the sudden change in leadership. The museum, on its part, has maintained a more generalized explanation, referring to an ongoing comprehensive review process.
Viola, who assumed the role of artistic director in 2019, disclosed to The Art Newspaper that his contract was abruptly ended, not due to any shortcomings in his artistic vision or leadership capabilities. Instead, he attributes the termination to his decision in September 2025 to formally raise issues about the progressively worsening working conditions at MAMBO. These concerns, he noted, were not isolated but were echoed by several other team members. According to Viola, the museum's board of directors allegedly disregarded these complaints and, rather than conducting an internal investigation, opted to terminate his employment.
In contrast, MAMBO's official statement, released on February 6, presented Viola's departure as an outcome of a thorough and continuous assessment of various operational aspects within the museum. The institution also indicated that it had already initiated the process to identify and appoint a new artistic director. However, when approached for comments on Viola's specific allegations concerning the termination of his contract, the museum did not offer an immediate response.
Before his tenure at MAMBO, Viola had a distinguished career in the art world. He previously served as a senior curator at the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts in Australia, showcasing his expertise and commitment to modern art. Additionally, he held significant positions at the Museum D’arte Contemporanea Donneregina in Naples, Italy, further solidifying his reputation. His curatorial prowess was also recognized on an international stage when he curated the Italian Pavilion at the prestigious 2022 Venice Biennale, a testament to his influence and vision in contemporary art.
The unfolding situation at MAMBO highlights a significant point of contention between the former artistic director and the museum's board, particularly concerning the transparency and rationale behind leadership changes. The differing narratives underscore the importance of clear communication and accountability within cultural institutions, especially when employee welfare and internal governance are brought into question.