FRAMED? Art world insiders have criticized Donald...

FRAMED? Art world insiders have criticized Donald L. Bren, charging that he bypassed the Newport Harbor Art Museum’s board and undermined plans for a new museum designed by Renzo Piano, moves that led to the world-acclaimed architect’s replacement with a Bren favorite. (F1) Bren, a museum trustee and chairman of the Irvine Co., refuses comment, and an Irvine Co. spokesman denies any impropriety. . . . But Bren was apparently surprised by the ensuing controversy, thinking he had acted in the museum’s best interest. “I can’t believe I’m taking it on the chin on this one,” he told a well-placed source.