OXFORD.- Modern Art Oxford announced the appointment of David Thorp as Interim Director.

Currently Associate Director for Artes Mundi, David is a well-respected curator and director who held directorial positions at South London Gallery, The Showroom and Chisenhale Gallery, he was Curator of Contemporary Projects at The Henry Moore Foundation and has curated shows at the Royal Academy and PS1 MoMA New York among many others.

David has been appointed following the death of Modern Art Oxford’s Director, Michael Stanley in late September.

Chair of the Trustees, David Isaac said today, “David has the experience to lead the gallery as Interim Director during this difficult time and to support the staff to deliver Modern Art Oxford’s programme of exhibitions and strategic projects. Recruitment for a new Director will commence in late 2012”.

David will work with Trustees and the senior management team at Modern Art Oxford to ensure the continued smooth running of the gallery focusing on strategic work, including plans for the gallery’s 50th anniversary in 2015. He will take up the position in late October 2012.

Modern Art Oxford also announced the appointment of Sally Shaw to the new role of Head of Programme.

Sally was appointed by Michael Stanley and is currently Deputy Head of the Mayor of London’s Culture team where she leads on visual art including overseeing the Fourth Plinth programme and commissioning a series of high profile contemporary artworks for the London 2012 Festival. From 2006 to 2010 Sally was Curator for Art on the Underground where she implemented a range of strategic programmes across the capital. Sally will be joining the Modern Art Oxford team in December 2012.