Maud Page Becomes First Female Director of Art Gallery of NSW
Image: Art Gallery of NSW/Instagram
The Art Gallery of New South Wales has appointed Maud Page as its tenth director, marking a historic milestone as she becomes the first woman to lead the 154-year-old institution.
Page, who currently serves as Deputy Director and Director of Collections, will officially assume the role on March 28, ushering in a new era for one of Australia’s most prestigious cultural institutions.
The decision follows an extensive global search for a leader to guide the gallery into the future. With over two decades of experience in public art institutions in Australia and internationally, Page is recognised for her strong curatorial vision, operational leadership, and expertise in collections and exhibitions.
“I strongly believe in the transformative power of art and look forward to working with artists and colleagues at my neighbouring cultural institutions and in greater Sydney as well as further afield with regional galleries and museums across the state, to welcome new audiences and families,” said Page.
Established in 1871, AGNSW (AGNSW) is one of Australia’s deluxe art institutions, ranking 28th in the world’s top 100 most-visited art museums. With its two landmark buildings, Naala Badu and Naala Nura, the gallery seamlessly blends art, architecture, and landscape to create a dynamic space for artistic and cultural exchange.
Since joining AGNSW in 2017, Page has played a pivotal role in expanding the gallery’s outreach. She has successfully introduced programming that reaches new audiences, particularly in Western Sydney and regional communities. From blockbuster international exhibitions like Magritte to community-driven initiatives, her leadership has helped redefine the gallery’s presence in the Australian cultural landscape.
“With over two decades of experience in art galleries, Maud is highly respected nationally and internationally for her exceptional curatorial vision and financial acumen. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to community engagement, broadening cultural perspectives and attracting new audiences to public institutions for the benefit of all,” said the Art Gallery of NSW Trust President, Michael Rose.
Page Set to Expand Outreach and First Nations Voices
Page has also been a champion for First Nations voices, with AGNSW strongly emphasising Indigenous representation under her leadership. The opening of the Children’s Art Library and the success of the Hive Children’s Festival highlight her focus on engaging young audiences and fostering an appreciation for art from an early age.
She takes over from Dr Michael Brand, who has led the gallery since 2012. Over his 13-year tenure, Brand oversaw significant transformation, including completing the Sydney Modern Project and opening the Naala Badu building, the most important cultural development in Sydney since the Opera House. His leadership also secured significant international exhibitions, such as Matisse and Rembrandt, further elevating AGNSW’s reputation on the global stage.
“I would also like to extend my deep gratitude to Michael Brand for his collegial leadership. Working alongside him for the conceptualisation and realisation of our new building, Naala Badu, was extraordinary and a highlight of my professional career,” said Page.
With the leadership of Maud Page, the Art Gallery of NSW is at the brink of an exciting new chapter that will bring inclusivity, innovation, and deeper connections across the state and beyond.
