Ann Philbin

As director of the Hammer Museum at UCLA, Ann Philbin has built a renowned exhibition program, a strong and distinctive institutional identity, and an international reputation for scholarly excellence and cutting-edge programming. Major programs launched since her arrival in 1999 include the acclaimed Hammer Projects series showcasing young and emerging artists, the widely influential Public Engagement initiative, the signature Made in L.A. biennial, and the implementation of free admission in 2014. Also under Philbin’s leadership, the Hammer has developed a robust calendar of more than 300 free public programs per year spotlighting many of the most provocative and creative thinkers of our time. Today, after nearly two decades of ambitious institutional growth, Philbin is leading the Hammer through a comprehensive multiyear transformation plan and capital campaign that will renovate, expand, and fully activate the museum's facility.