Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) has announced the appointment of Dr Andrew Lu AM as its new Chair, succeeding Mark Clapham after six years of service to the organisation, during which PICA navigated a significant period of transition and renewal.
Clapham joined the PICA Board in 2020 and served as Chair from January 2022. During this time, he helped lead the organisation through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, major capital works at PICA’s heritage-listed home in the Perth Cultural Centre, the appointment of a new CEO, and the establishment of a series of advisory groups to better connect the organisation to the communities it serves.
“I often reflect on my first week on the Board, as COVID was closing in and the future felt deeply uncertain. It is therefore with immense gratitude that I conclude my tenure knowing I leave PICA in a significantly stronger position,” said Mr Clapham.
“Today, the organisation is supported by an experienced and highly committed Board, alongside an exceptional executive leadership team. Under the leadership of our CEO, Hannah – one of Australia’s standout arts leaders – PICA has embarked on ambitious new directions.”
“During this time, alternate revenue streams have grown and diversified, our program has continued to expand, and PICA’s position as the home of contemporary arts in Western Australia has been further cemented,” said Clapham.
Clapham described his time as Chair as an immense privilege, acknowledging PICA’s enduring commitment to nurturing artists and fostering space for experimentation and critical inquiry. He also welcomed Dr Lu’s appointment, saying he was delighted to hand over the role to a leader who would guide PICA into its next chapter with deep expertise and integrity.
“PICA remains a vital part of Australia’s arts and cultural ecosystem: one of the few institutions that not only presents contemporary art but actively nurtures and develops artists’ practices. As I step down, I do so with immense gratitude and confidence in PICA’s future,” said Clapham.
“This organisation remains one of Australia’s most important sites for artistic experimentation, critical thinking and creative risk-taking. Throughout my tenure, we have supported more than 1,600 artists and delivered hundreds of exhibitions, performances and studio residencies. I wish my successor Dr Andrew Lu all the very best in PICA’s next chapter,” said Clapham.
During his tenure, Clapham worked closely with successive CEOs Amy Barrett-Lennard and Hannah Mathews, supporting PICA’s strategic direction and reinforcing its role as a producing and presenting organisation committed to artists at all stages of their careers. Clapham confirmed his ongoing support of the organisation as a donor, reflecting a long-standing philanthropic commitment to PICA and its mission.
Having joined the PICA Board in December 2025, Dr Lu’s appointment as the incoming Chair comes at a pivotal moment in PICA’s history, as the organisation prepares for the completion of Perth’s Cultural Precinct redevelopment.
“I congratulate and thank Mark Clapham for his stewardship and diligence as Chair. Creative expression enables us to reflect and endure, and through shared stories of our common humanity the arts promote a sense of connection. PICA is an incubator of artistic talent, with a history of building capability and capacity across artforms and communities, and I am honoured to contribute,” said Dr Lu.
Dr Lu brings extensive experience in law, governance and the arts, with more than 25 years advising government and major institutions. He is President of the Mental Health Tribunal, a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and holds non-executive directorships across leading national cultural organisations including SBS, Melbourne International Film Festival, the Australian Youth Orchestra and the National Gallery of Australia Foundation. Appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2021 for services to the arts and the law, Dr Lu is recognised for combining rigorous governance with a deep commitment to cultural and public value.
Deputy Chair, Melvin Yeo recognised the outstanding commitment and contribution from outgoing Chair, Mark Clapham, and welcomed the appointment of successor, Dr Lu. “Since joining the Board in 2019 and becoming Chair in 2022, Mark has led with quiet dedication, generosity and care,” said Yeo.
“He has supported the PICA team tirelessly behind the scenes, while providing calm, steady leadership through a period of significant transformation – from appointing a new CEO and modernising our constitution, to championing our Aboriginal and Artist Advisory Groups and overseeing major upgrades to our heritage-listed home, and expanding our family of donors and benefactors.”
“In the true spirit of a great Chair, Mark has prioritised succession and leaves PICA stronger than he found it. We welcome Dr Lu’s appointment and look forward to him building on this legacy as PICA continues to lead the conversation on contemporary arts practice in Western Australia and beyond,” said Yeo.
Board Member Tarryn Gill will also conclude her four-year tenure on the PICA Board following dedicated service as an arts representative to the organisation. Over this period, Gill brought invaluable sector knowledge and strong advocacy for artists to the Board’s deliberations, making a meaningful contribution to PICA’s governance and strategic direction.
“Serving on the board has been such a valuable experience for me personally and professionally. I’m grateful to have been part of the establishment of the Artist Advisory Group and to have witnessed the thoughtful, caring leadership always guiding PICA” said Gill.
Yeo recognised the valuable insight provided from Gill, confirming her association with PICA will continue through future collaborations. “A highly respected, award-winning multidisciplinary artist, Tarryn has brought invaluable insight to the PICA Board and ensured it remains closely connected to the artists and communities we serve,” said Yeo.
“Her leadership in establishing the Artist Advisory Group and her strong relationships across the sector have been vital during a period of change. While stepping down, we’re pleased her connection with PICA continues and look forward to future collaborations.”
For more information about Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) and its programs, visit: www.pica.org.au for details.
Image: Dr Andrew Lu AM (supplied)