For our next Change Makers philanthropic forum we’ll be gathering at GOMA on September 10 to explore the art of giving. This special event explores the enduring impact that Arts philanthropy can make, with a strong focus on the innovative programs at the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA).

We all love the visual, literary, and performing arts. Art has the power to connect communities and create stronger societies. It can even open up new avenues for therapy in areas like dementia. In the forum we will look at:

  • How philanthropy helps galleries to develop exhibitions and build collections
  • Ways to create a legacy through art
  • How art fosters cross-cultural connections and reflects cultural and social diversity
  • Enriching First Nations communities, regenerating and preserving cultural traditions, and providing career pathways
  • Psychosocial benefit of the arts for vulnerable groups in our community.

Immerse your senses in Iris van Herpen’s world

Guests will also have the opportunity to view QAGOMA’s winter exhibition, ‘Iris van Herpen: Sculpting The Senses’.

Iris van Herpen is more than an endlessly innovative fashion designer. She is someone who loves to make art, design, science and technology collide. No wonder the likes of Beyonce, Björk, Cate Blanchett and Lady Gaga have proudly worn her unconventional hand-crafted creations.

Exclusive to Brisbane, this exhibition is a sensory exploration of Iris van Herpen’s garments in conversation with contemporary artworks, natural history specimens and cultural artefacts from which Iris draws inspiration.

Meet the members of our panel

Susan Chenoweth, the Head of Philanthropic Services at Elston, is hosting the discussion. She will be joined by a passionate panel of people who share a love of the Arts and genuine desire to create a positive impact in the community through education.

Simon Wright, Assistant Director QAGOMA

Simon leads QAGOMA’s many public engagement programs that provide educational experiences for children, and psychosocial wellbeing benefits for many people in our community. His programs provide alternatives to drug therapies for those who have low vision, hearing loss, and dementia.

Ruth McDougal, Curator, Pacific Art, GOMA

Ruth is more than a curator. She’s someone who cares for stories, artworks and relationships right across Oceania. Her connection with communities in Australia and in places like Papua New Guinea fuels her passion for art as a powerful way to celebrate culture and inspire indigenous artists.

Georgia Walsh, Regional Liaison Officer

Georgia is a Badtjala woman and artist. She leads QAGOMA’s award-winning Design Tracks program which provides opportunities for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to work alongside established Indigenous Australian artists and mentors who are keen to share their knowledge.

Susan Chenoweth, Elston Philanthropic Services

Susan is a seasoned non-profit leader with 20 years experience in financial services and philanthropy. With a deep understanding of social investment, and a real commitment to building a better future, Susan is often sought out by people who want to create genuine change through giving.

Do you have an interest in structured giving?

If you have always enjoyed supporting causes that are close to your heart, but you’re looking to do more in the future, Elston can help you explore a range of options, including establishing your own charitable trust, or creating a subfund.

Over the years, we’ve helped:

  • parents to create a legacy
  • retirees to pursue a new purpose beyond their careers
  • business owners to be even more involved with the community

If you’d like to know more, feel free to reach out and we’ll be happy to help. Simply talk to your adviser or contact us here.