About ACAR

Vision

To create a platform where artists from Australia and China engage in meaningful exchange, fostering understanding, dialogue and long-term cultural connection.

Mission

To deliver residencies, exhibitions and public programs that connect artists, institutions and communities across Australia and China.

ACAR builds on more than a decade of creative programming and artist engagement in Sydney.

• 800+ artists supported

• Long-term creative activation across a multi-site precinct

• Established partnerships with artists, institutions and cultural organisations

This foundation enables ACAR to operate as a platform with both local depth and international reach, supporting artists at different stages of their practice while expanding opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.

Residency Program

ACAR facilitates artist residencies between Australia and China, enabling participants to live, work and create within new cultural environments.

These residencies are designed to support artistic development while fostering collaboration and shared perspectives across borders.

ACAR Art Prize

The ACAR Art Prize brings together leading Australian and Chinese artists in a major exhibition platform, supporting artistic excellence and public engagement.

With one of the most significant prize pools in Australia, the Art Prize is a central expression of ACAR’s commitment to cultural exchange and contemporary practice.

Leadership

ACAR is guided by Geoff Raby, Founding Chair and former Australian Ambassador to China.

Dr Raby has had a long career in international diplomacy and business, with deep engagement in Australia–China relations and contemporary Chinese art.

His leadership informs ACAR’s commitment to cultural exchange as a means of fostering understanding and connection between nations.

Governance

ACAR is governed by an independent Board of Directors overseeing strategy, governance and program delivery. Each of them brings experience across international diplomacy, contemporary art, business and governance

• Geoff Raby, Founding Chair

• Stephen Fitzpatrick, Director

• Ariel Zhang, Secretary

Learn more about the Board of Directors

ACAR is supported by an advisory group of artists, curators and cultural leaders who contribute to program development and artistic direction.

Katrina Cashman
Dr Guan Wei
Robert Kok
Patrick Mayoh
John McDonald
Monika Tu OAM
Victor Wang

ACAR works with artists, institutions and partners across Australia and China to deliver its programs and expand its reach.

Looking ahead, ACAR will continue to:

• Grow its residency program

• Expand institutional partnerships

• Develop the ACAR Art Prize as a major cultural event

• Strengthen opportunities for international collaboration