Canberra Contemporary has announced the appointment of Melbourne-based curator and arts writer Sophia Cai as the next Director.
Sophia joins Canberra Contemporary with over ten years’ experience curating and working in leadership roles in the arts sector. Her ongoing research interests include Asian art histories, the intersections between contemporary art and craft, and building communities of practice rooted in feminist and anti-racist work.
From 2023 to 2024, she was the Artistic Director of Bus Projects, one of Australia’s longest running artist-run organisations. Her first book Clayful was published by Smith Street Books in 2024.
Sophia completed her Masters in History of Art at the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London. Prior to this, she graduated from the Australian National University with a First-Class Undergraduate Honours degree in Art History and Curatorship, receiving the Janet Wilkie Art History Prize for her thesis on contemporary Chinese photography.
“The Board is delighted that Sophia Cai is joining Canberra Contemporary as our next Director,” said Canberra Contemporary Board Chair, Amanda Biggs. Sophia brings with her considerable curatorial and arts leadership experience and presents an exciting vision that includes platforming new voices and engaging audiences in imaginative ways.
“Her focus on advocating for art in everyday life and ensuring art remains accessible to all will ensure Canberra Contemporary will continue its rich history of playing a significant role in the city’s cultural life. Welcome Sophia!” said Biggs.
“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Canberra Contemporary as Director and being part of the organisation’s exciting next chapter,” said Sophia. “I look forward to working closely with artists, curators, and the Canberra Contemporary staff and Board to deliver an ambitious, diverse, and engaged artistic program that firmly places artistic voices front and centre.
“As someone who studied at the ANU for my undergraduate degree in Art History, and started my career interning and working at cultural institutions in Canberra more than a decade ago, I am also looking forward to reconnecting with a city I once called home.”
Sophia will commence her now role at Canberra Contemporary on Tuesday 25 February 2025. For more information about Canberra Contemporary, visit: www.canberracontemporary.com.au for details.
Image: Sophia Cai – photo by Garry Trinh for Creative Australia