The Hon Rod Kemp was Minister for the Arts and Sport from Friday 23 November 2001 to Tuesday 30 January 2007. This site is available for archival purposes only.

New Chair for Artbank Advisory Board

The Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp, has announced the appointment of Joe Gersh as the Chair of the Artbank Advisory Board.

“This is a milestone year for Artbank, which is celebrating its 25^th year of operations,” Senator Kemp said.

“I am delighted that Mr Gersh has accepted the appointment.”

Currently managing director of Gersh Investment Partners Ltd, Mr Gersh will bring a blend of business skills and experience in the arts to the position. He has been a member of the Artbank Advisory Board since 2000.

“With his experience in business and his commitment to Artbank over the years, I am confident that Mr Gersh will take on this role as Chair with gusto and continue to add to the record of great achievements,” Senator Kemp said.

“Mr Gersh has been associated with some of the largest and most successful public and private companies in Australia.”

Mr Gersh replaces Professor Ted Snell, who chaired the advisory board for six years.

Under Professor Snell, Artbank expanded its role nationally, opening a Melbourne showroom in early 2005.

“Professor Snell has been instrumental in creating a legacy that will stand Artbank in good stead,” Senator Kemp said.

“I am grateful for the advice he has provided to the Government over the years and his unfailing enthusiasm and commitment to Artbank’s success.”

Artbank was established in 1980 to promote quality Australian contemporary art through its art rental scheme and to support Australian artists by acquiring their work for the Artbank collection.

MELBOURNE

15 May 2006