Kirk, who was chosen after an international search, most recently served for six years as associate publisher at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, where she worked on all aspects of the publications process, from editorial development to distribution and sales. In addition, she managed a variety of new media projects and worked as part of a museum-wide team to develop a strategic plan for MoMA’s digital publishing initiatives.
Prior to moving to New York, Kirk served as the Getty’s general manager of publications from 2002–2006. Previously, she was the director of publications and graphic design at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. She holds an MLA from Stanford University and a BA from Pomona College.
As publisher, Kara will work to ensure that the Getty is a leader in art publishing in both print and new media.
“Our goal is to create a list that reflects the Getty’s current activities and aspirations, one that builds on a record of excellence to achieve real eminence,” said Deborah Marrow, director of the Getty Foundation, who oversees the work of Getty Publications. “We are delighted that Kara will be the one to guide us on this path.”
“I am delighted to be returning to the Getty and to have the chance to work with such a stellar team. It is an interesting moment to be a publisher and I look forward to addressing the many challenges and opportunities afforded by the changing terrain to insure that the Getty continues to make valuable and lasting contributions to art history publishing," said Kirk.