Carboni to leave AGWA amid amalgamation talks

The state government has announced two interim appointments to replace Stefano Carboni as chief executive and director of the Art Gallery of WA, amid reports it could amalgamate AGWA, WA Museum and the State Library of Western Australia.

Mr Carboni had been with AGWA since 2008.

He will be replaced by executive director of Culture and the Arts WA, Colin Walker, as chief executive, and curator of the Fremantle Arts Centre, Ric Spencer, as lead curator.

The news came amid reports from The Australian that the government could seek to put AGWA, WA Museum and the State Library of WA under a single adminstration.

Heritage, Culture and Arts Minister David Templeman and AGWA have been reached for comment.

Business News had previously reported that Mr Carboni would step down from his role this year.

In a statement, Mr Templeman said the government was committed to ensuring AGWA generated positive outcomes for the state community.

“I thank and acknowledge Dr Stefano Carboni for his valuable contribution he has made over the past 11 years as director,” he said.

“I look forward to working with Mr Walker, Dr Spencer and the board, as we work towards a new vision for the art gallery when it enters its 125th anniversary year in 2020.”