The Australia Council wishes to acknowledge the passing of respected arts administrator Chrissy Sharp and pay tribute to her impressive contribution to the arts in Australia.

Sharp was Chair of the Australia Council Dance Board from 2009 – 2012 and held a number of senior roles in the arts across Australia, London and Hong Kong.

Most recently, she was CEO of the Sydney Writers Festival from 2018 until earlier this year and helped to lead the festival through the impact of COVID-19.

Among her many high-profile roles, she was General Manager of Sadler’s Wells in London, the founding director of the Wheeler Centre, Acting Director of Sydney Dance Company and Executive Director of the Australian Writers’ Guild.

Australia Council CEO Adrian Collette AM said:

“With her generous intellect, her practical disposition and her infectious sense of humour, Chrissy Sharp knew how to get and keep the show on the road. You always knew where you stood with Chrissy. Her spirit and skills were rare and she will be much missed.”

Australia Council Head of Literature Wenona Byrne added:

“Chrissy was a tireless advocate and industry leader who worked across almost all art forms and many international borders. She was known and respected for her passion, focus, intelligence and sense of fun. While the creative community has lost a champion and a brilliant arts administrator, her incredible legacy will continue.”

The Australia Council extends its sympathies to Chrissy Sharp’s family including her husband Michael Lynch, as well as her friends and arts colleagues.