Robyn Archer to head Gold Coast culture charge

Robyn Archer_Heide SmithInternationally-acclaimed artist Robyn Archer AO will lead the Gold Coast’s arts and cultural development ahead of the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Ms Archer has been appointed as the City of Gold Coast’s Strategic Advisor, Arts and Culture.

Ms Archer recently completed her five year role as Creative Director for the Centenary of Canberra (2013) and was formerly Artistic Director of the National Festival of Australian Theatre, the Adelaide and Melbourne International Arts Festivals, and Ten Days on the Island (which she created for Tasmania). She continues to direct The Light in Winter which she created for Federation Square, and last year won the Helpmann Award for Best Cabaret Performer.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said securing Ms Archer was a major coup for the city and the development of arts and culture would further support the delivery of a new city-shaping cultural precinct for the Gold Coast.

“Robyn Archer is one of Australia’s most respected leaders in arts and culture and her appointment speaks volumes about our commitment to advancing cultural development on the Gold Coast,” said Cr Tate.

“The position of Strategic Advisor, Arts and Culture will be responsible for driving the city’s cultural development objectives and there would be few more qualified than Ms Archer for this role.

“The Gold Coast will benefit greatly from Ms Archer’s international networks and strong track record of advancing cultural programs with other government agencies. This appointment sends a strong message that the Gold Coast has a vibrant cultural heart and we want to see it grow ahead of the Commonwealth Games.”

Ms Archer said hosting the Commonwealth Games presented a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the host city’s culture on the world stage.

“The Commonwealth Games provides the perfect opportunity to share this city’s unique personality with the rest of the world, and to leverage a long-term cultural legacy for the Gold Coast – it is heartening to witness the city’s belief in arts and culture as the way forward,” said Ms Archer.

“I’ve begun the process of learning more about this place and its people – that’s the first step in such roles. It’s already clear to me that the Gold Coast has an energy and contemporary creativity which, newly profiled, will provide an invaluable addition to the historic image and reputation of sun and surf.”

“I welcome this opportunity to work with that energy – nurturing, expanding and deepening what is already a rich and diverse culture.”

For more information, visit: www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au for details.

Image: Robyn Archer – photo by Heide Smith