Entertainment
14 December, 2025
Taking helm at gallery
ANGELA Goddard is the new director of the Cairns Art Gallery Precinct.
Ms Goddard, who starts early next year, has a distinguished career in arts leadership, with extensive experience in museum and gallery management, curatorial practice and public programming.
She has a strong track record of championing contemporary and First Nations art, strengthening institutional partnerships, and delivering exhibitions that connect communities with culture.
Most recently, Ms Goddard served as director of Griffith University Art Museum in Brisbane, overseeing Queensland’s second-largest public art collection. Earlier, she was the curator of Australian art at the Queensland Art Gallery’s Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), where she curated several major exhibitions. Her international networks and passion for Indigenous and contemporary art were highlighted as key strengths in her appointment.
The Cairns Art Gallery Precinct integrates three heritage-listed buildings in the city centre – the Cairns Art Gallery, Court House Gallery and Mulgrave Gallery. The precinct aims to showcase the depth and diversity of Far North Queensland’s artistic talent and distinctive heritage, while presenting nationally significant exhibitions and programs.
Gallery precinct board chairman Doug McKinstry said Ms Goddard’s leadership would be pivotal in elevating the precinct’s artistic direction and community engagement.
“Angela is widely respected across Australia for her exceptional leadership and commitment to enriching public access to the arts,” he said.
“We are delighted to welcome her to Cairns.
“Her nationally recognised scholarship and leadership, combined with her passion for partnerships and collaborative working methods, are exceptional qualities that will help guide the gallery precinct into its next phase of growth and impact and realise our vision of cultural leadership for Northern Australia,” Mr McKinstry said.
Ms Goddard said she was honoured to join the precinct.
“I am thrilled to take up this opportunity. Cairns offers a remarkable confluence of place, people and possibility. I look forward to working with the team and community to deepen the precinct’s impact locally, nationally and internationally.”
Cairns Mayor Cr Amy Eden said the precinct was central to the city’s cultural offerings, attracting audiences and supporting career pathways.
“Cairns Regional Council and the precinct team welcome Angela’s appointment and look forward to a dynamic future under her leadership.”
