The coordinator of Logan Art Gallery, Michael Wardell, is retiring after five decades in the visual arts scene.
His departure comes as the gallery prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary next year.
Mr Wardell led the gallery for 12 years, helping it secure six Gallery and Museum Achievement Awards (GAMAA).
These were won mostly because of Logan’s multi-cultural focused programs, which Mr Wardell helped turn into a permanent art collection.
“I feel very proud especially of what’s happened with the collection and how we’ve taken it to something that is significant,” he said.
At the most recent GAMAA awards, Museums & Galleries Queensland Executive Director Rebekah Butler recognised the impact of Michael’s work extended beyond the gallery walls.
“His dedication and passion for contemporary art, his commitment to supporting artists and his love of community have not only enriched the region’s cultural landscape, but have also inspired a new generation of artists and art lovers,” she said.
“The innovative exhibitions and programs at Logan Art Gallery, showcased under his guidance, have sparked important conversations and challenged conventional perspectives, underscoring the transformative power of contemporary art.”
Mr Wardell said it was tempting to stay on and be part of the Logan Art Gallery’s anniversary year, but thought he might never leave if he did.
He said retirement came with mixed emotions, but he was looking forward to spending more time with his artist wife Pamela, four children and four grandchildren.
“Part of me is really excited,” he said.
“For years I’ve been saying I don’t have time to do that and I’m hoping I’m going to be busier than ever next year.
“I want to write a story based on my experience in Australia.”
At the age of 19, Mr Wardell moved to Australia from his homeland Ireland, arriving as one of 10 stable lads on a horse plane with 30 horses.
“I had a free trip to Australia and 100 pounds in my pocket that my mother had given me and I was disowned by my dad temporarily because he had me down for the British Army, and as an Irishman, the last thing I wanted to do was join,” he said.
The most recent opening of the latest exhibition at Logan Art Gallery doubled as a farewell to Mr Wardell.
It was attended by a large crowd of local artists.
“That one-on-one relationship with artists is what has kept me here and the curatorial opportunities of working in this wonderful multi-cultural community is what excited me when I first came here,” he said.
Mayor Jon Raven said Mr Wardell made an “indelible mark” on the Queensland and national arts landscape throughout his career.
“Michael’s remarkable contributions and dedication to the arts community were recognised recently with a 2024 GAMAA Lifetime Achievement Award,” he said.
“We thank him for his service to council and the Logan community and we wish him all the best for a wonderful retirement.
“His influence and legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of the arts in Logan for years to come.”