Media Statement

Josephine Johnson Appointed Chair of Regional Arts WA

Western Australia’s peak arts body and leading regional arts organisation, Regional Arts WA (RAWA), is pleased to announce the appointment of Josephine Johnson as its new Chair. With a 30-year legacy of supporting and nurturing arts across the state, RAWA continues its commitment to supporting regional creativity with this significant appointment.

Ms Johnson brings to the role extensive experience in the arts sector and a deep connection to regional Western Australia, having grown up on a farm in Harvey on Bindjareb and Wardandi Nyoongar Country. Her career path includes lengthy corporate experience in WA and abroad, and a successful transition to becoming a full-time practicing artist based in Walyalup/Fremantle. Her work, which spans paintings and sculptures, is represented in private collections across Australia, Singapore, and Scotland.

Ms Johnson is an active member of the arts community and already serves as a Board member of Regional Arts WA.

“I am deeply passionate about the ability of the Arts to support and transform communities and I am enthusiastically embracing the opportunity to Chair the RAWA Board and help arts in the regions to thrive.”

Retiring RAWA Chair, Oliver Bazzani, says the Board unanimously supported Josephine’s appointment.

“I am delighted Ms Johnson has accepted the challenge and wish her well at this exciting time in the history of RAWA.”

The Board extends its gratitude to outgoing Chair Mr Bazzani for his leadership and dedication to regional arts communities during his tenure.

Ms Johnson will work closely with CEO Dr Pilar Kasat and lead the Board of Directors, with positions currently held by Lesley Wilkison (Vice Chair) , Clancy McDowell (Secretary), David Wall (Treasurer), Mohammed ‘Ayo Busari’, Jacky Cheng, Jennifer Halton, Rosie Sitorus, and newly elected Kaiya Ashworth, Abby Carter, and Lauren Greatorex.