How the Morgan Library & Museum Exquisitely Heart-Awakens Without Being Political
June 28, 2024 Fanyu Lin for Financial Times (Chinese)
Within its walls at the heart of New York City, the Morgan Library & Museum houses an exquisite collection of manuscripts, rare books, and works of art, encompassing not only visual art but also literature, history, and music—interdisciplinary humanities of the highest level.
Towards the end of 2022, I wandered through its elegant galleries, immersed in the raw energy of contemporary German artist Georg Baselitz's drawings, which contrasted beautifully with the powerful ancient verses of the female poet Enheduanna, the earliest named author in world literature, dating back to third millennium B.C. Mesopotamia. This mesmerizing visual dialogue between eras, cultures, and artistic expressions returned to me vividly during my recent discussion with the Morgan's Director, Dr. Colin Bailey, for the Global Leadership Conversation Series.
Portrait of Dr. Colin Bailey
Bridging Millennia
"We must be much more careful and considerate about how we talk about things to the community," Colin said, "We need to be respectful and not fearful of introducing material that can be seen unrelated to contemporary needs or of interest to only scholars and connoisseurs. If we believe something is marvelous and we have that material, we need to show it as well as possible." His voice, genuine and resolute, reflects a deep commitment to cultural preservation and a passionate dedication to the humanities. Colin's thoughtful and courageous leadership continues to guide the Morgan Library & Museum, balancing tradition and modernity.
Far from unrelated to contemporary needs, the museum's sophisticated curation of the arts of the ancient and medieval worlds subtly yet profoundly engages in the cultural discourse of our time. One such example is the recent exhibition Medieval Money, Merchants, and Morality, which inspired parallels between historical perspectives on wealth and modern views on its ethical responsibilities, resonating with today's discussions of corporate social responsibility and ethical investment.
Pierpont Morgan’s Library, Courtesy of the Morgan Library & Museum, New York. Photography by Graham Haber, 2014
Colin discusses museums' nuanced role in shaping societal narratives, which is deeply reflective of the Morgan's mission to educate and illuminate. He explains, "Our role is not to support certain ideas, political or social, but to show the best of humanity and the highest achievements of humanity, which must be an arc towards equality, progress, and fairness."
This mission is evident in exhibitions like that of She Who Wrote: Enheduanna and Women of Mesopotamia, ca. 3400-2000 B.C.. Colin recalls, "We had an opportunity to show the role that women played as writers, officials, and royalty in ancient Mesopotamia." This was particularly relevant during a time when Iraq was experiencing social upheaval, especially around issues concerning women's rights. He said, "We didn't lobby for one side or the other; instead, we showed a beautiful image of a past society at a fraught political moment." In this way, the museum boldly connects history to contemporary issues, reflecting on their relevance without being direct or confrontational.
Celebrating a Century of Access
The history of the Morgan is a journey towards greater accessibility. Initially, it was the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, and 100 years ago, it transformed into a public institution. Colin's reflections on accessibility reveal a multifaceted strategy, as he proudly notes several key ongoing achievements during his tenure, including the restoration of the original library and the addition of a garden.
J. Pierpont Morgan’s Library. Courtesy of the Morgan Library & Museum, New York. © Brett Beyer, 2022.
The Morgan's architecture has been a testament to meticulous care and visionary ambition since its inception. The original library, built in 1906, was Morgan's daily retreat. J.P. Morgan himself, alongside architect Charles Follen McKim, poured over every detail of the original program, ensuring that each element reflected the highest standards of design and craftsmanship. This unwavering attention to detail set a precedent that continues to guide the institution today. While the interior was restored in 2010, the exterior was not pristine. The recent restoration of the McKim building, a project rooted in a thorough review of its conditions, underscores this enduring commitment. The team has revitalized this architectural gem, preserving its historical essence while enhancing its beauty and elegance.
The Morgan Garden, evening view. Courtesy of the Morgan Library & Museum, New York. © Brett Beyer, 2022.
The newly added garden, open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the summer, allows visitors to appreciate the extraordinary Neoclassical architecture up close and view previously unexhibited antiquities. The new lighting design is delicately crafted to be minimal, creating an elegant nighttime presence that subtly honors and accentuates both the garden and the restorative work. The Morgan now stands not only as a guardian of rare and precious art but also as a beautifully restored landmark—an artwork in its own right—that invites the public to experience it. As Colin described, "It gives you a feeling of Morgan, how Morgan himself enjoyed his library."
The original entrance to J. Pierpont Morgan’s Library, evening view. Courtesy of the Morgan Library & Museum, New York. © Brett Beyer, 2022.
The increased accessibility at the Morgan extends beyond physical accommodations, encompassing meticulous curation and care. "Accessibility also involves presenting and interpreting the works in ways that resonate with diverse audiences," explains Colin. "I read every curator's labels and texts before they are published to ensure that if there's anything I don't understand or find opaque, it is made clearer for our visitors," he explains while praising the curators, noting that they write very well, with their own voices, and with a certain elegance and flavor that conveys their interest and passion.
In addition, the Morgan has invested in digital initiatives to enhance its online presence and share its collections more broadly. This is a crucial step, given the light-sensitive nature of many works on paper that limits their physical display—all part of their commitment to greater and greater access for the public.
Awakening Unbound Compassion
The Morgan has evolved into a place where history is alive. Each curated corner offers a new opportunity to participate in the creation of history. This year's centennial celebration as a public institution is more than a milestone; it is an invitation to reflect on its founding story and evolving mission. The upcoming show devoted to the life and career of Belle da Costa Greene, Morgan's first director, will highlight her remarkable achievements as a medieval scholar, cultural heritage executive, and a woman of African American descent who navigated a complex social landscape by passing as white. Her story is one of resilience and excellence, providing a powerful narrative that resonates with contemporary discussions about race and identity.
Clarence H. White (1871–1925), Belle da Costa Greene, 1911. The Morgan Library & Museum
Colin's genuine wish for those who work in the arts and nonprofit sector to be admired and appreciated speaks volumes about his leadership in fostering a culture of respect among his staff, understanding that the success of the museum rests on the shoulders of those who bring it to life daily. This ensures that knowledge is not just preserved behind glass cases but is shared passionately with every visitor and through every interaction. When asked about what the art and cultural world needs most today, he expresses from the heart: "I think it needs two things. I think it needs funding—be it private, state, or local—and it needs, on the other side, responsible and compassionate leadership."
Under Dr. Colin Bailey's stewardship, the Morgan Library & Museum continues to honor the institution's foundational ideals while offering sophisticated, heart-awakening contemporary experiences as one of New York City's most cherished institutions.
