Bega Valley Council announces new SECCA Gallery Director

Bega Valley Shire Council has announced the appointment of Janice Falsone as the new South East Centre for Contemporary Art (SECCA) Gallery Director.

Advising that Falsone brings a deep passion for contemporary visual art, along with extensive experience managing arts organisations, Bega Valley Council Director - Community, Environment and Planning, Emily Harrison stated “I wholeheartedly congratulate Ms Falsone on her appointment and look forward to seeing SECCA continue to flourish under her directorship.

“I am confident she will provide strong artistic, curatorial and strategic leadership for SECCA, ensuring an accessible and inclusive experience of art that enriches people’s lives through bringing local, national and international artists to the gallery.”

Thrilled to join SECCA (formerly known as Bega Valley Regional Gallery), Falsone commented “with its purpose-built facility and forward-thinking agenda, SECCA offers a unique platform to connect artists, audiences and the wider community.

“In my first six months, I aim to build strong relationships with the local community, key stakeholders and colleagues, to strengthen SECCA’s community ties and explore opportunities to enhance its role in cultural tourism.

“The local arts community is vital to the region and SECCA can act as a bridge connecting the broader national and international arts scenes to the region.

“My goal is to work with the team to develop programs that spark dialogue and engagement, elevate SECCA’s reputation as a leading contemporary art institution, and position it within the global conversation on contemporary art practice.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to relocate with my family, contribute to SECCA’s vision and build deeper connections with the region and its vibrant communities.”

Falsone has served in a range of curatorial and arts management roles in Canberra and Brisbane. These include Director of Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Director of PhotoAccess, Gallery Manager of Australian National Capital Artists, arts organisation M16 Artspace and advocacy organisation Queensland Artworkers Alliance.

She also has experience in private sector support for the arts, having worked at the Australia Business Arts Foundation, and as National Partnerships Officer at the Australian Institute of Architects.

Harrison thanked acting Gallery Director, Jasmin Brown and her team for their dedication and hard work over the past year, adding “the successful launch of the Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award 2024 is testament to their expertise and drive, and I am very grateful for their enthusiasm.”

In October, former SECCA Director Iain Dawson was convicted of fraud having personally pocketed more than $34,000 in ticket sales from the touring 2023 Archibald Prize exhibition.

He received a three-year community corrections order and 200 hours of community service.

Falsone will commence her new role on 20th January 2025.

Image: New SECCA Gallery Director Janice Falsone.