Mori Yoshiko, Founding Chairperson of Mori Art Museum, Dies at 85
The Facts
Mori Yoshiko, Chairperson Emerita of the Mori Art Museum, died of pneumonia on December 23, 2025, at 9:27 a.m. She was 85. The Mori Art Museum announced the news on January 6, 2026, noting that the funeral was private per her wishes. Mori co-founded the museum with her late husband, Mori Minoru, opening it in 2003, and served as its chairperson until December 2024, when she became Chairperson Emerita. She was also a director of the Mori Building Company and founded the Mori Contemporary Art Foundation in May 2025.
The Signal
Mori was a pivotal figure in advancing contemporary art in Japan and internationally. Her leadership helped establish the Mori Art Museum as a major institution in Tokyo's Roppongi district. She held trustee and councilor roles at the Royal Academy of Arts, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) International Council, and the Tate International Council, reflecting her global influence. Her honors include the Chevalier of the Legion of Honour (France, 2013) and an Honorary Officer of the Order of the British Empire (UK, 2025). A memorial event is planned for a later date.
- People: Mori Yoshiko, Mori Minoru
- Museums: Mori Art Museum
- Locations: Tokyo
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