Vale Michael Keighery: Acclaimed artist, arts advocate, and former Viscopy Chair
January 9, 2025
Copyright Agency is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Keighery, an acclaimed artist, cherished Copyright Agency member, and tireless advocate for the rights of visual artists.
Michael’s artistic legacy spans continents, with his mixed media, ceramic-based, and performance art exhibited and collected worldwide. His works have graced major international art events, from the Second Beijing International in China to the Huntington Gallery in Boston, USA. At home in Australia, Michael held numerous solo exhibitions in Sydney and as well as at the Brisbane City Gallery, New England Regional Art Museum, and Maitland Regional Art Gallery.
His works appear in prestigious public collections, including the National Gallery of Australia, National Gallery of Victoria, Art Gallery of Western Australia, Powerhouse Museum, Artbank, Taipei Fine Arts Museum, and the Fuping International Ceramics Galleries in China, alongside many regional galleries across Australia.
Beyond his artistic practice, Michael was a distinguished arts educator and policymaker. He served as Head of the Fine Arts Program at the University of Western Sydney (2003–2007) and held leadership roles as National President of the International Association of Art (IAA), Chair of the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA), and a member of the NSW Arts Advisory Council and NSW Ministry for the Arts.
From 2006 to 2010, Michael served as Chair of Viscopy, a pivotal time in the organisation’s history. Under his leadership, Viscopy underwent significant transformation, with Michael championing the long-term interests of visual artists, including the introduction of the resale royalty right. His instrumental role in forging a successful alliance between Viscopy and Copyright Agency, ultimately resulting in a merger, was a testament to his vision and dedication to supporting Australian artists.
Michael Keighery’s contributions to the arts and his commitment to advocating for artists’ rights will be remembered with immense respect and gratitude.
We extend our deepest condolences to Michael’s family, friends, and the arts community as we mourn his loss.