Underbelly Arts appoints a new Artistic Director 0
The Board of Underbelly Arts is thrilled to announce the appointment of Eliza Sarlos to the role of Artistic Director.
Eliza steps into the role with a strong track record of building and nurturing creative communities and in working with emerging artists. Her experience spans a range of artforms and organisations and has included roles across programming, producing and strategy for Music NSW, Sound Summit and FBi Radio.
The Board were impressed by Eliza’s broad vision and ideas, “she is a natural facilitator and nurturer, something we see as critical to the role for an organisation that places great value in supporting the next generation of exciting and talented artists” says Julia Pucci, Chair of Underbelly Arts.
Eliza will take the reigns from Imogen Semmler the founding Artistic Director since 2007. Imogen has been an incredible force and the heart and soul of the organisation for many years. In her time as Artistic Director she has supported over 600 artists and exposed thousands of audience members to a broad range of artforms. She has shown true dedication and passion for the organisation and the artists it supports.
“ Underbelly Arts has been my life for the last 6 years and I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it, not only in meeting and working with so many wonderful artists and peers but also in welcoming such diverse and interested audiences to the events over the years. Although it is sad to be leaving, I am really excited about the fresh energy and vibrancy a new Artistic Director will bring to the event. I congratulate Eliza on her appointment and am thrilled to be leaving Underbelly Arts in such capable hands”, Imogen says.
“Over the last five years I’ve watched Underbelly Arts grow into one of the most important opportunities for emerging artists in the country, and I can’t wait to help build on all the incredible work that Imogen Semmler has done since its inception”, Eliza says of her new appointment. “I feel very privileged to be a part of the organisation at such an exciting time, and am looking forward to helping more artists take that first, or that next step, in a career of innovation and excellence.”
Eliza will work alongside Executive Director Clare Holland who first joined Underbelly Arts as an artist in 2007 and has been in the role since 2010. Eliza and Clare will develop and deliver the annual program, which includes the 2013 Lab and Festival.
