GM Susan Polgar to Play Simultaneous Chess Match at MoMA
By Robby B. · Tue, 28 Jul 2026
Grandmaster Susan Polgar will conduct a simultaneous exhibition against 50 artists at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
To celebrate the new exhibition and birthday of French-American artist and inventor, Marcel Duchamp, the Museum of Modern Art in New York City has organized a simultaneous chess match with Grandmaster Susan Polgar. Duchamp was a well-respected and talented chess player, representing France at 4 International Olympiads.In a 1919 letter to the Stettheimer, Duchamp wrote, "My attention is so completely absorbed by chess. I play day and night, and nothing interests me more than finding the right move.... I like painting less and less." It is well known that in his 30s, he gave up art for a short time in order to focus on his love of chess, playing many tournaments and even writing a weekly chess column. Duchamps even went so far as to accompany 24-year-old Bobby Fischer to a tournament in Monte Carlo, according to Calvin Tompkins' biography.This simultaneous exhibition will include 50 opponents from around the art world, who will face off against Grandmaster Susan Polgar. The event will take place July 28th, 2026 from 12:00–5:00 p.m. Visitors are welcome to observe the event in the Garden Lobby on Floor 1 of the MoMA.