Experienced visual artist, writer and educator Dr Theo Costantino has been appointed Director of the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery at The University of Western Australia.

“Together, we will deliver engaging programming, provide professional and creative development opportunities for practitioners at all career stages, and foster a welcoming and accessible cultural hub that encourages learning, exchange, and critical thinking.”

With more than two decades’ experience in the arts and culture sector, Dr Costantino joins the gallery following their tenure as Executive Director ART ON THE MOVE from 2020 to 2024.

During that time  they facilitated exhibition touring and led sector development initiatives for the Western Australian regional arts community and contributed to the WA Regional Visual Arts Touring Strategy 2024-2028.

Dr Costantino previously held academic positions at Curtin University and the University of Hertfordshire in the UK, where their expertise in artistic practice and scholarly pursuits focused on the representation and memorialisation of history.

Dr Costantino said they were honoured to step into the role of director of a university art gallery of international standing.

“Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery  plays a pivotal role in supporting the educational, research and community engagement efforts of UWA,” they said.

They emphasised their commitment to building upon the gallery’s legacy of championing contemporary art and emerging artists, while also showcasing the diverse landscape of Western Australian art.

“I’m thrilled to join the highly skilled, passionate, and committed team at Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery,” Dr Costantino said.

“Together, we will deliver engaging programming, provide professional and creative development opportunities for practitioners at all career stages, and foster a welcoming and accessible cultural hub that encourages learning, exchange, and critical thinking.”

Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery was the first purpose-built university art museum in Australia, opening in 1990 and houses the UWA Art Collection, the Cruthers Collection of Women’s Art and the Berndt Museum Collection.

The appointment of Dr Costantino marks an exciting new chapter for gallery, reinforcing its role as a vital link between artistic, academic and community sectors in WA.