A new leadership structure is set for Fringe World organiser Artrage, as Jo Thomas steps back from her chief executive role to continue on solely as creative director.
Artrage boss Jo Thomas will depart from her role as the Fringe World operator’s chief executive and continue on as creative director, in a move that signals a new leadership structure for the major arts organisation.
After holding the dual title since October 2023, Ms Thomas will transition from her full-time chief executive role into a part-time creative director role from July 1.
Family circumstances were behind the decision to change, according to Artrage’s announcement released today.
Prominent events on the Perth calendar, Artage’s Fringe World festival and Rooftop Movies, have been guided by Ms Thomas’ operational and artistic vision for the past three seasons.
“After an incredible three years as Artrage chief executive and creative director, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved and have genuinely loved my time in the role,” Ms Thomas said.
“I’m excited to now transition into the role of creative director, which will allow me to focus on artistic strategy and program development, deliver meaningful cultural outcomes, and continue creating exceptional audience experiences.”
In Ms Thomas’ time as both chief executive and creative director, she oversaw the creation of a third Artrage project – a winter festival called Re//Perth in 2024.
The new festival was meant to be an annual addition to Western Australia’s events calendar; however, it did not continue last year.
In conversation with Business News, Ms Thomas had previously said she was prepared for three years’ worth of programming and was hopeful to restart the festival this year.
She also established a new philanthropic fund called the Next Act Fund and the WA Stars Initiative as part of Artrage’s efforts to support local artists.
“The board acknowledges the exceptional contribution Jo has made during a transformative period for the organisation and is delighted that she will continue to shape Artrage’s creative future in a part-time capacity as creative director,” Artrage chair Noel Whitehead said.
Separating the roles, he added, would strengthen the producer’s operational and creative direction.
“This leadership evolution reflects a considered step forward, strengthening both our creative and operational focus, and positions Artrage for continued success,” Mr Whitehead said.
The Artrage board started its search for a new chief executive to work alongside Ms Thomas this week.
Amongst the state’s arts and cultural organisations, Artrage is the seventh largest, according to Business News’ Data & Insights.
Over the weekend, Fringe World secured a $4.3 million pre-budget commitment for the next three years from the state government.
