The Carter Names Michaela Haffner Assistant Curator of Paintings, Sculpture, and Works on Paper
The Amon Carter Museum of American Art (the Carter) has proudly announced Michaela Haffner as its new Assistant Curator of Paintings, Sculpture, and Works on Paper. Haffner, currently a PhD candidate in Art History at Yale University, will start her new role on January 22, 2024.
Haffner’s Role and Vision
In her new position, Haffner will use her expertise in 19th and 20th-century American art to enhance the Carter’s collection. Her focus will be on projects that align with the Carter’s mission of showcasing American creativity. Haffner, previously a Curatorial Assistant at the Carter, will report to the Director of Collections and Exhibitions. She will collaborate with museum curators and staff to bring new perspectives to the forefront.
Leadership’s Comments
Andrew J. Walker, Executive Director of the Carter, expressed pride in the curatorial team’s dynamic program and scholarship. He praised Haffner’s deep knowledge, passion for American art, and commitment to the museum’s mission.
Haffner shared her excitement, saying, “I am honored to be joining the Carter, the institution where I first began my career as a Curatorial Assistant.” She looks forward to exploring painting, sculpture, and works on paper as mediums for American artists’ diverse histories.
Haffner’s Background and Contributions
Haffner is pursuing her PhD at Yale University, focusing on 19th and 20th-century American art. Her dissertation examines the visual origins of 19th-century “wellness” culture. Haffner has curated several exhibitions at the Carter, including works on lesser-known print practices and exploring themes like “the hunt” in historical and contemporary contexts. She has contributed to museum scholarship through public lectures and essays for exhibition catalogues.
Diverse Experience
Beyond the Carter, Haffner has worked at notable institutions such as The Museum of Modern Art in New York, Davis Museum & Cultural Center, and Childs Gallery. Her international experience includes a fellowship at the Musée du Louvre in Paris.
Haffner holds a BA from Wellesley College and an MA and MPhil from Yale University.
About the Amon Carter Museum of American Art
Located in Fort Worth’s Cultural District, the Carter is a leading cultural resource, offering insights into American creativity. Its collection features masterworks by renowned American artists and is a key repository of American photography. The museum is known for its innovative exhibitions, engagement with contemporary artists, and leading research and conservation programs. Admission to the museum is free.
For more information, visit cartermuseum.org.
