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Criena Gehrke announces her departure from role as HOTA Chief Executive

September 1, 2022

Karen Sweaney

Arts / Culture / Venues /

Criena Gehrke has today announced she will be leaving her role as Home of the Arts Chief Executive in February 2023, after nearly a decade of leading the arts and culture vision for the Gold Coast.

In a statement released today Gehrke advised “I came to the Gold Coast nearly a decade ago to develop the City’s Culture Strategy 2023 – a 10-year vision that would unapologetically and ambitiously outline a roadmap for cultural development.

“The Culture Strategy boldly asked the Gold Coast to value its own potential, trust its own magnificent, glittery, smart, and entrepreneurial DNA and above all, invest in its artists. The Gold Coast is now recognised nationally as a contemporary and exciting incubator of talent and culture ... and Gold Coast artists are leading the way.

“To have then been given the opportunity to lead HOTA through its transformation and growth has been an absolute privilege. Now as the Culture Strategy enters its twilight year, it is the right time for me to seek a new creative adventure. I cannot wait to see what will be achieved in the next decade here in this city that I love.”

HOTA Chair Jackie Trad celebrated Gehrke’s tenure as the inaugural HOTA Chief Executive and added “Over the last few years, HOTA has become a place of national significance that has redefined culture on the Gold Coast. Under Criena’s leadership, HOTA has realised the Outdoor Stage and HOTA Gallery, developed new audiences and become a true cultural heart for the Gold Coast.

“The challenges of a pandemic have not gotten in the way of delivering the vision. Criena’s tenacity and humility ensured continued growth despite the challenges.

“On behalf of the HOTA Board, I extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Criena. She leaves with HOTA in a strong financial position and creative vision for her successor to build from.”

Image: Criena Gehrke. Credit: HOTA.