Remembering James T. Demetrion
“We mourn the loss of James T. Demetrion, the Hirshhorn’s second and longest-serving director. Jim’s sixteen-year tenure focused on the excellence of the Hirshhorn’s permanent collection. He expanded and diversified our world class collection, curated landmark surveys, fostered talents, and reimagined our plaza. His legacy holds a mirror to our mission and Joseph Hirshhorn’s vision. Art is for everyone, so was Jim Demetrion. We thank his family for sharing him in life and we celebrate his generous legacy.”
Melissa Chiu
Hirshhorn Director
November 29, 2020
Hear James Demetrion’s 2015 conversation with Melissa Chiu:
READ MORE ABOUT HIS LEGACY
The Washington Post: James Demetrion, museum director who transformed the Hirshhorn, dies at 90, 2020
The Art Newspaper: James Demetrion, director who shaped the Hirshhorn Museum’s collection, has died, aged 90, 2020
Des Moines Register: Former Des Moines Art Center director, leader in contemporary art world, dies at 90, 2020
The Washington Post: Hirshhorn Director Retiring, 2001
CELEBRATE HIS LIFE
To send your memories, thoughts, and messages of condolence to the family of James Demetrion, email Hirshhorn.InMemoriam@si.edu.
Information about the public memorial will be posted here once the event is scheduled.
