MEGALO Print Studio and Gallery is about to lose one of its mighty champions, with news to hand that after six years, its CEO and artistic director Alison Alder, is leaving to take up a significant ANU School of Art appointment.

Alder, a distinguished print artist who fought the battle royal to retain the use of the Fitters’ Workshop for the organisation, eventually negotiating much grander premises on Wentworth Avenue will leave in mid June to take up the position of Head of Workshop, Printmedia and Drawing, at the ANU School of Art.

During her time at Megalo Alder expanded Megalo’s artistic programs, developed partnerships and launched outreach programs.

She also oversaw the publication of “Megalomania,” a retrospective of work made during Megalo’s 30-year history, and found time to organise the Wave Hill Exchange as part of Canberra’s Centenary, a collaboration with Indigenous artists that was launched last year in its new premises by New South Wales Governor, Marie Bashir.

The Megalo Board has thanked Alder for her dedication to her role, saying, “The organisation, the staff and members will miss Alison greatly, as an exceptional artist, a strong voice for the organisation and remarkable leader. Alison Alder led Megalo during the most challenging years in the organisation’s history – finding solutions, nurturing her talented staff, and pursuing a collaborative approach.”

A local and national search for the new chief executive officer/artistic director will commence soon.