Mori Yoshiko, Chairperson Emerita of Mori Art Museum, Dies at 85
Mori Yoshiko, Chairperson Emerita of the Mori Art Museum and Director of the Mori Building Company, died of pneumonia on December 23, 2025, at age 85. The museum announced her passing on January 6, 2026, stating that funeral services were restricted to close family. Mori co-founded the Mori Art Museum in 2003 with her late husband, Mori Minoru, and served as its founding Chairperson until December 2024, when she became Chairperson Emerita. She also held directorships at several Mori Building affiliates and served as Chairperson of the Mori Contemporary Art Foundation from May 2025.
The Signal
Mori's death marks the loss of a pivotal figure in Japan's contemporary art scene. Over two decades, she helped establish the Mori Art Museum as a leading institution for international contemporary art in Tokyo, fostering cross-cultural exchange and elevating Japan's presence in the global art world. Her extensive board memberships—including the Royal Academy of Arts, MoMA International Council, and Tate International Council—underscored her role as a bridge between Japanese and Western art institutions. Her honors include the Chevalier of the Legion of Honour (2013) and Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (2025).
- People: Mori Yoshiko, Mori Minoru
- Museums: Mori Art Museum
- Locations: Tokyo
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