For the first time in its 154-year history, the Art Gallery of New South Wales has appointed a female director.
Maud Page, currently serving as Deputy Director and Director of Collections, is officially stepping into the role – an appointment announced this morning – following a global search for the institution’s next leader. Page officially commences as the gallery’s tenth director next week on 28 March, ushering in a new chapter for one of Australia’s most significant cultural institutions.
Her appointment marks a historic moment, not only for gender representation but also for the future trajectory of the gallery. Australia's Minister for the Arts, John Graham, commended outgoing director Dr Michael Brand’s contributions while welcoming Page’s leadership. “I congratulate Maud Page on her appointment and look forward to the gallery’s continued growth under her direction. Her vision for expanding engagement, particularly with younger and more diverse audiences, is crucial for the future of the institution.”
Who is Maud Page?
With more than two decades of experience in major public art institutions, including the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), she has long been recognised for her curatorial vision and expertise in collections and exhibitions. Her leadership at the Art Gallery of NSW has already been transformative – expanding the institution’s reach beyond its central Sydney location and championing the importance of First Nations voices in the arts.
During her tenure as Deputy Director, Page played an instrumental role in the gallery’s expansion, notably overseeing curatorial direction and public art commissions for the Sydney Modern Project. She has been pivotal in bringing blockbuster exhibitions to Sydney while also fostering greater engagement with regional NSW and Western Sydney communities. Under her guidance, initiatives such as the Children’s Art Library and the Hive Children’s Festival have been introduced, ensuring the next generation’s connection to the arts.
Page has expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, highlighting her dedication to making art more accessible and continuing the gallery’s commitment to excellence. “I strongly believe in the transformative power of art and look forward to working with artists and institutions across Sydney and beyond to welcome new audiences.”
Who is the outgoing director at the Art Gallery of NSW?
Outgoing director Dr Michael Brand leaves behind a remarkable legacy. Since taking on the role in 2012, Brand has been a key figure in the gallery’s transformation into a globally recognised cultural institution. From overseeing the completion of the Sydney Modern Project – Sydney’s most significant cultural development since the Opera House – to securing major international exhibitions, his influence has been far-reaching.
