The Museum of Modern Art, recognized as one of the top contemporary arts institutions in the world, is creating the job of associate director specially for Halbreich. She steps down Nov. 1 after leading the Walker for 16 years, and will take up her new job in February.
Halbreich will lead a curatorial committee specializing in contemporary art. She will also develop the museum's collection of very recent works, in addition to proposing and organizing exhibitions.
Halbreich will work directly with MoMA Director Glen Lowry. In a statement, MoMA officials say Halbreich's appointment will "serve to amplify the museum's leading position as an arbiter and interpreter of contemporary art from around the world."
During her 16 years at the Walker, Halbreich oversaw a $135.6 million expansion project and earned an international reputation as an outspoken advocate of avant garde contemporary art.
The Walker has chosen Olga Viso as Halbreich's replacement. Viso is currently director of the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington D.C.