University appoints Gallery Coordinator

Painter and print maker Dr Shelagh Morgan has been appointed Coordinator of Southern Cross University’s (SCU) NEXT gallery space. Shelagh was the first Director of the University gallery 14 years ago and has returned with a nationally recognised profile and a breadth of experience in the arts.

Shelagh has a PhD in Visual Art from SCU, and is a recipient of 2 Australia Council Grants. She has work in a number of public collections including the Australia National Gallery collection in Canberra.

Dr Morgan will co-ordinate an active program of exhibitions and projects that are aimed at developing a broader local and national audience for the contemporary arts practice of the region.

“There are very few dedicated contemporary art spaces in the Northern Rivers. NEXT contemporary art space provides an opportunity for artists to exhibit their work, but will also make an important contribution by bringing contemporary art to the region,” Dr Morgan said.

“My vision for the gallery is that it will be an active interface between SCU students of contemporary visual art and the wider community.”

Dr Morgan said NEXT will also provide the opportunity for students of the Bachelor of Visual Arts and Bachelor of Education to gain real experience working in a gallery environment.

“An integral aspect of art courses at SCU is to provide real life experience in the business aspects of the art and art education worlds. With very few contemporary galleries in our area, NEXT will be unique in giving upcoming artists and educators exposure to the day to day business of organising and promoting art,” Dr Morgan said.

Dr Morgan said the gallery will also introduce a contemporary art education program for local schools in the area over the coming year.

For more information:

Kasturi Shanahan, Media Liaison, 0439 858 057