Arts & Culture
30 March, 2026
Steps taken to secure future of Sturt Gallery and Studios
Steps have been taken to secure the future of Sturt Gallery and Studios in Mittagong.
Steps have been taken to secure the future of Sturt Gallery and Studios in Mittagong.
Chair of the Board of Governors at Winifred West Schools Limited, Clementine Allan, has announced membership of a new Sturt Board and has also named 10 ‘Founding Members’ to help oversee the success of the new independent entity.
It follows a review process designed to address Sturt’s operational and financial challenges and ensure it has a viable future.
“During the transition process of creating an independent Sturt, our aim has been to position Sturt for a vibrant future while respecting its heritage,” Mrs Allan said in a letter to the Winfred West Schools community.
(Winifred West Schools Limited owns and operates Frensham Schools.)
“To do this well, we undertook a careful and considered process, identifying individuals who, together, reflect a breadth of experience across the arts and crafts, a deep knowledge of Sturt, connection to the local and international community, business expertise, fundraising capability and sound governance practice.”
Appointments to the board include Tom Brigstocke, Howard Tanner AM LFRAIA, Mary Taguchi, Michael Harris and Madeline Baker.
Mrs Allan said there were eight places on the Sturt Board “and further appointments may be made in due course to complement the current directors and ensure the full diversity of skills and perspectives required for Sturt’s next chapter”.
A core group known as the Founding Members will act as custodians of Sturt’s future, providing stewardship and – where needed – guidance and support to the Board.
There can be a total of 20 Founding Members, and each member can hold this constitutional role for a term of five years.
The first 10 Founding Members have been named as Annabel Beith, Tony Carroll, Elinor Crossing, Geoff Daniels, Gina Fairley, Helen Gauchat, Elisabeth Nagel, Megan Patey, Ingrid Wanner and Annabel White.
Mrs Allan said Winifred West Schools would continue to support Sturt where appropriate, offering assistance and guidance as needed.
“Sturt’s rich heritage remains central to its identity, and as the new structures take shape, we look forward to seeing it thrive in its own right.
“Frensham students will continue to enjoy extra-curricular classes and other programs at Sturt, benefiting from our enduring connection with Sturt and the wider arts and craft community.”
Sturt was founded in 1941 by Winifred West when she retired as the head of Frensham – an independent secondary school for girls which she established in 1913.
According to its website, Sturt Gallery and Studios has been driving the studio crafts movement for over 80 years and is recognised as one of the most important models of its kind in Australia.
It is widely recognised as a centre of excellence in Australian contemporary craft and design.
Read More: Mittagong, Southern Highlands