In the midst of ongoing scrutiny regarding his association with Jeffrey Epstein, collector Leon Black has garnered support from Glenn Lowry, the former director of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Black, who previously chaired MoMA's board, stepped down in 2021 following reports detailing his connections with Epstein. Despite calls from activists and renowned artists for his removal, Lowry has come to Black's defense.
Black's departure from his role as CEO of Apollo Global Management in 2021 coincided with growing concerns over his relationship with Epstein. Earlier this year, he reached a settlement of $62.5 million with the U.S. Virgin Islands to resolve claims related to Epstein, with his lawyer stating that Black had engaged Epstein for legitimate financial advisory services, a decision he now regrets.
Further complicating matters, newly released files in 2026 highlighted a list of artworks linked to Black's business dealings. Although he has not been accused of any crimes, Black has been asked to testify before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee regarding his management of Epstein's wealth.
Amidst these challenges, Lowry, who led MoMA from 1995 to 2025, was recently interviewed by the Wall Street Journal about Black's position. He emphasized, "As far as I know, Leon has never been charged with a crime related to Epstein." Lowry acknowledged the various lawsuits against Black but highlighted his contributions as a trustee, stating that the board thoroughly evaluated Black's role and deemed him a solid trustee.
When questioned about Black's effectiveness as a trustee, Lowry noted, "During the pandemic, when many institutions faced layoffs, it was Leon Black who insisted that MoMA would not lay off any staff under his watch." This statement contrasts with reports indicating that MoMA did reduce its workforce during that period.
Black, a prominent figure on the ARTnews Top 200 Collectors list alongside his wife Debra, has significantly contributed to MoMA, including a generous $40 million donation in 2018 for the museum's renovation and expansion, which was completed in 2019.
As the art world continues to navigate complex relationships and ethical considerations, the support of influential figures like Lowry for trustees like Black may shape future governance and philanthropy within cultural institutions.
