Installation view of "12 Modern American Painters and Sculptors," Musee National d'Art Modern, Paris.
Jackson Pollock, Alexander Calder, John Kane, Museum of Modern Art, International Program
The two paintings are John Kanes
1953
MoMA notables standing in front of Picasso's Les Demoiselles D'Avignon at opening event.
Nelson Rockefeller, Museum of Modern Art
Nelson Rockefeller (left) is depicted in front of Picasso's famous Demoiselles D'Avignon when it was at MoMA. Rockfeller constituted perhaps the greatest single effort to initiate art diplomacy on behalf of the United States.
1939
The works of Yasuo Kuniyoshi on display at the 1952 Venice Biennale.
Yasuo Kuniyoshi, Museum of Modern Art, International Program, Venice Biennale
Yasuo Kuniyoshi was represented at the 1952 Venice Biennale, among others, in spite of official U.S. government distaste for his work. Only through private efforts could his work be submitted to represent the United States.
1952
The United States Pavilion at the XXVII Venice Biennale, 1954.
United States, Museum of Modern Art, Venice Biennale, International Council
The United States Pavilion was purchased with private funds through efforts coordinated by MoMA's International Council. American representation at the 1954 Venice Biennale was organized completely by private efforts, making the United States the only country represented without official government support.
1954
Rene d'Harnoncourt (right) at the press opening of "12 American Painters and Sculptors," Musee National d'Art Modern, Paris
Rene d'Harnoncourt, International Program, Jackson Pollock, Alexander Calder, Abstract Expressionism
Rene d'Harnoncourt, then Director of MoMA, is pictured at the International Program's first major exhibition abroad. A Jackson Pollock painting is displayed left and behind d'Harnoncourt while an Alexander Calder mobile hangs over him.
1953
Press Release Announcing the Formation of the International Council
Museum of Modern Art, International Council
Museum of Modern Art
April 1, 1954
Press Release Announcing MoMA's Art in Embassies Project
Museum of Modern Art, Art in Embassies Project, International Council
Museum of Modern Art
May 11, 1960