James Rondeau, director of the Art Institute of Chicago, has given his first detailed interview about a 2023 incident where he removed his clothes on a flight from Chicago to Munich after consuming alcohol and prescription medication. The event led to police involvement and a voluntary six-week leave before the museum's board reinstated him, expressing confidence in his leadership.
Rondeau's public reflection on the personal and professional low point coincides with him hinting at major expansion plans for the museum. He revealed that only 15% of its modern and contemporary art collection is on view and that strengths like Surrealism are underrepresented, signaling a push to improve facilities and visitor access to remain competitive among global institutions.