Catherine Sinclair Appointed as Director of Exhibitions, Conservation, and Production at the National Gallery of Canada

Former Ottawa Art Gallery Deputy Director brings extensive experience and a fresh perspective to her new role

The National Gallery of Canada (NGC) has announced the appointment of Catherine Sinclair as its new Director of Exhibitions, Conservation, and Production. With 18 years of experience at the Ottawa Art Gallery, including as Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Sinclair brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Her appointment is set to strengthen the NGC’s vision and enhance its exhibitions and collections.

Sinclair’s Strategic Vision for the NGC:

As the Director of Exhibitions, Conservation, and Production, Sinclair will be responsible for overseeing the strategic vision, development, and implementation of the NGC’s Ottawa-based and traveling exhibitions, as well as its collection installations and supporting services. Her extensive background in both curatorial and management roles makes her the ideal candidate for this position.

Collaboration and Innovation:

Sinclair’s approach to her work is characterized by thoughtful collaboration with artists, community members, and supporters. She aims to build meaningful exhibitions and relevant collections that resonate with a diverse audience. Sinclair is eager to work with cross-departmental teams to mobilize the NGC’s art resources efficiently, ensuring that artists and communities across the country feel included, represented, proud, and inspired by the national collection and powerful exhibitions.

Sinclair’s Accomplishments at the Ottawa Art Gallery:

During her tenure at the Ottawa Art Gallery, Sinclair oversaw three departments: Learning and Engagement, Collections, and Curatorial. She curated over 50 exhibitions, many of which contextualized regional artistic practices within national and international artistic discourse. Notable exhibitions include Norman Takeuchi: Shapes in Between – A Retrospective and Alma: The Life and Art of Alma Duncan (1917–2004). Sinclair’s work has been recognized and presented at conferences such as the University Art Association Conference and the Ontario Association of Art Galleries. She has also published in prestigious art journals.

The National Gallery of Canada’s Mission:

The NGC is dedicated to amplifying voices through art and extending the reach and breadth of its collection, exhibitions program, and public activities to represent all Canadians. With a focus on Indigenous ways of knowing and being, the NGC aims to create dynamic experiences that open hearts and minds, allowing for new ways of seeing ourselves, one another, and our diverse histories through the visual arts. The gallery boasts a rich collection of contemporary Indigenous international art, as well as important collections of historical and contemporary Canadian and European art.

Conclusion:

Catherine Sinclair’s appointment as the new Director of Exhibitions, Conservation, and Production at the National Gallery of Canada brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the institution. Her collaborative approach and dedication to meaningful exhibitions and collections will undoubtedly contribute to the NGC’s mission of representing all Canadians and fostering new ways of seeing through art. Sinclair’s tenure promises to be an exciting chapter in the gallery’s history, as she leads the way in showcasing the diverse voices and stories of artists and communities across the country.