Media Release 12 June 2006 2 pages

Gallery director’s job attracts strong field of applicants

Applications for the job of Christchurch Art Gallery Director closed on Friday, attracting a strong field of candidates from throughout New Zealand and Australia.

Christchurch City Council Community Services Group General Manager Stephen McArthur said he was pleased with both the high level of interest in the job and the extremely high calibre of those who had applied for the position.

“It is an exciting time in the development of the Christchurch Art Gallery as it builds on the success of the first three years of the new facility and works to implement the Council’s new Vision and the five-year strategic Paradigm Shift Plan.

“This has been reflected in the strong level of interest from applicants from both sides of the Tasman and also the quality of those who have applied to be director.”

Mr McArthur said the successful applicant will be instrumental in continuing to develop the cultural life of Christchurch and taking a lead role in working with the Cultural Precinct partners to establish Worcester Boulevard as the most visited cultural tourism site in New Zealand.

“The new Christchurch Art Gallery Director will have an established reputation in the arts and be able to point to a successful track record in managing cultural institutions which have a strong community connection and a record of innovation.”

Mr McArthur said a short-list of candidates will be drawn up in the next couple of weeks and interviews held throughout July.

ENDS

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