AGSA welcomes Jason Smith as new director

The Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA) has announced the appointment of Jason Smith as its new director, set to begin in February 2025.

Smith, currently Director of Geelong Gallery, brings over 25 years of experience in visual arts leadership, including roles at Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art, Heide Museum of Modern Art, Monash Gallery of Art and the National Gallery of Victoria. His expertise spans curatorial innovation and strategic leadership, and he brings a genuine passion for collections, exhibiting and programming to the role.

Andrea Michaels, Minister for Arts, welcomed the announcement, stating, “I congratulate Jason Smith on his appointment, and I look forward to seeing the Art Gallery of South Australia continue to transform the lives of artists and audiences under his directorship.”

Sandy Verschoor, Chair of AGSA, praised Smith’s entrepreneurial vision and dedication to accessibility. “Jason will bring comprehensive experience in providing artistic, curatorial, and strategic leadership to AGSA,” she said. “I look forward to working closely with Jason as we elevate AGSA to be the most inspiring art destination in Australia.”

Smith expressed his excitement for the role, reflecting on his longstanding connection with AGSA, and emphasised his commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

“I regard it as a particular privilege to be asked to lead the ongoing development of one of the nation’s most acclaimed art collections,” he said. “The principle that has guided my leadership is to ensure an accessible and inclusive experience of art that enriches peoples’ lives.”

Smith replaces Rhana Devenport (2018-2024), who was the first woman to hold the role in the gallery’s near 140-year history.