Naomi Cass, who will take up the role in late January, has a longstanding career in arts management and development, including most recently as Director of the Centre for Contemporary Photography  in Melbourne.

Ms Cass has previously been a curator and writer working in contemporary art, craft and design.

“Castlemaine is distinguished by the quality and range of artists living and working in the region as well their active engagement across multiple art forms,” she said. 

CAM’s outstanding art and history collection and her respect for regionally based creative communities were what attracted Ms Cass to the role.

"I welcome the opportunity of living and working within Castlemaine’s exceptional artistic community. I pay my respects to the people of the Dja Dja Wurrung and look forward to working with the traditional owners of the land.” she said. 

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On her resignation from the CCP, Ms Cass was recognised for more than 14 years of being the driving force behind CCP’s growth as a leading arts organisation, successfully fostering a tight-knit creative community of artists and supporters.

She played an integral role in supporting early career artists, curating midcareer artists as well as advancing curatorial practice in ground breaking exhibitions and commissioning projects to engage the wider community.

“I am keen to engage with this diverse community for the benefit of CAM and the arts-lead social and economic benefit of the region.” she said.

“Building on this gem of a collection and fabulous building, I look forward to bringing new interpretations and experiences, attracting new local, national and international visitors, as well as creating a newfound stability for the organisation.”

CAM’s chairman Craig Mutton, said: “I am excited that CAM was able to attract a high calibre national field of applicants and I look forward to working with Naomi to develop and leverage the gallery's deserved reputation, and to guide the organisation through the recovery and revitalisation necessary to ensure a sustainable and vibrant CAM into the future.”

Ms Cass will commence the key leadership role in Castlemaine on January 21.

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