The Suter Welcomes New Director

new gallery director toni mackinnon.
photo: john paul pochin

We are excited to announce that Toni MacKinnon has officially joined The Suter Art Gallery Te Aratoi o Whakatū as our new Director as of November 2024. Toni comes to us from MTG Hawke’s Bay Museum Tai Ahuriri, where she served as Curator of Art.

Toni brings a rich and diverse background to The Suter, with extensive experience as an artist, educator, and curator. Her previous roles include Director of Hastings City Art Gallery and leading the Public Programming and Education Team at Auckland Museum. She has also lectured in graphic design at Unitec Institute of Technology.

"I am thrilled to bring my dedication to arts excellence and audience engagement to The Suter," Toni shared. "The gallery plays a vital role in Nelson’s cultural landscape, and I look forward to collaborating with the wider community."

Steve Green, Chair of The Suter Trust, expressed his enthusiasm about Toni's appointment. "The Board was very impressed by Toni's skills and experience, and we are confident that she will build upon The Suter's strong reputation in the New Zealand visual arts environment."

Please join us in welcoming Toni MacKinnon to The Suter family!

Toni takes over from Julie Catchpole, who has retired after an impressive 17-year tenure. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Julie for her remarkable contributions and leadership.