Kong Lingyi has been appointed as the new CEO of the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing, succeeding Philip Tinari who stepped down shortly before the Lunar New Year. A veteran of the institution since 2012, Kong previously served as vice president of brand and is now tasked with overseeing UCCA’s multiple branches in Beijing, Beidaihe, and Yixing. Her leadership marks a shift toward a new management structure focused on institutional sustainability and public accessibility.
This transition is significant as UCCA is a cornerstone of China’s contemporary art landscape and a key player in the global art ecosystem. Kong’s vision emphasizes a move from execution-led tasks to long-term strategic management, prioritizing public education and the expansion of the institution's footprint, including a newly announced space in Guangzhou. As the Chinese art market and institutional scene continue to evolve, Kong’s leadership will determine how one of the country’s most influential private museums balances international prestige with local social responsibility.