Winner
Kathryn Kerswell
Retired Senior Registrar, The University of Queensland Art Museum, Brisbane
Kath Kerswell has been working in the visual arts industry in Brisbane for 31 years. During this time, she has worked predominantly, but not exclusively, behind the scenes managing art collections, working at institutions including Griffith Artworks, Griffith University; State Library of Queensland; and The University of Queensland Art Museum.
A respected industry professional, Kath’s legacies are numerous, inscribed on the many thousands of documents that relate to the collections with which she has worked. Her readiness to adapt to suit the needs of the times and the respect for the records she managed, has made her an ideal custodian in caretaking collections of historical importance.
At The University of Queensland Art Museum, Kath was instrumental in refining and developing procedures for managing the collection, and significantly involved with the development of programs that made the University art collection more accessible for use in teaching and learning. This included professional development opportunities for students.
Finalists
Justin Bishop
Former Director, KickArts Contemporary Arts, Cairns
Justin’s professionalism and commitment to regional arts in Queensland across his career is remarkable. His dedication to artists, arts workers and arts organisations, and his approach to meaningful engagement with communities, has contributed significantly to the growth of the sector in our state.
With an understanding of the issues affecting the arts sector, Justin has generously shared his knowledge and expertise including: providing training and mentorship to the Tablelands Regional Gallery staff and volunteers; contributing to the delivery of the Douglas Shire Council Arts Strategy; serving on various industry boards; and volunteering his time and knowledge towards educating and improving standards as a Reviewer for Museums & Galleries Queensland’s Standard Review Program over four years.
Justin also demonstrates a significant commitment to the recognition and promotion of Far North Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
Jane Harding
Heritage Librarian, Noosa Library Services, Noosa
As the Council’s Heritage Librarian, and recently promoted to Heritage Coordinator, Jane works tirelessly to increase and share the knowledge and understanding of local heritage throughout the Noosa Shire. She is instrumental in ensuring that this young community’s history is appreciated and captured for future generations.
Jane’s role is multifaceted and involves juggling multiple projects at any given time. Notable outcomes delivered in the past year include the conception and coordination of an exhibition in partnership with local curator, John Waldron, to celebrate the last 50 years of the Noosa Shire, inspired by the 50th anniversary of the naming of the Sunshine Coast. Titled What’s Up Sunshine? the exhibition was a tremendous success with locals and visitors to the region.