Māra Lāce, the long-serving director of the National Museum of Art (LNMM), has expressed her intention to step down from her position on April 13. In light of her decision, an open competition was announced, leading to the submission of applications from thirteen candidates, who will be evaluated by a specially appointed selection committee. This committee will be chaired by Dace Vilsone, the State Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, with Baiba Mūrniece serving as the deputy chair. The committee's composition reflects a diverse representation from various cultural and museum sectors in Latvia.

The selection committee is comprised of notable figures from different museums and cultural institutions within Latvia, which includes directors from various museums such as Iveta Ruskule, the director of the National Museum of Literature and Music, and Laura Lūse from the Rundāle Palace Museum. They will ensure a broad and informed assessment of the candidates' qualifications and suitability for leading the LNMM. Additionally, Zane Grudule has been appointed as an observer in the committee to ensure transparency in the selection process, although she does not possess voting rights.

The responsibilities of the LNMM director are crucial to the functioning and objectives of the museum. The selected candidate will be expected to plan, lead, and coordinate the operations of the museum while ensuring that it meets its goals and missions. This change in leadership presents an opportunity for new perspectives in the museum's direction and initiatives, signaling a potential shift in cultural priorities for Latvia's art community, as well as implications for public engagement and educational programming at the museum.