It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Fiona Winning, a beloved and esteemed board member of Accessible Arts. Her tireless advocacy for artists with disabilities left an enduring mark on New South Wales’ cultural landscape, and her loss is deeply felt across the artistic community.
What Happened
Fiona Winning passed away, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy, creativity, and inclusivity in the arts. Known for her dedication to making the arts accessible for all, Fiona’s contributions spanned multiple arts institutions, including Accessible Arts, Performance Space, and NIDA. Her influence in promoting accessibility and cultural leadership continues to resonate in Australia’s vibrant arts scene.
Who Was Fiona Winning?
Fiona Winning was a tireless advocate for the arts and a trailblazer for artists with disabilities. She was known for her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity in the arts. As a board member of Accessible Arts for three years, Fiona’s leadership and vision were instrumental in the growth of the organization, where she worked passionately to ensure that all artists, regardless of ability, had a platform to thrive.
Her work was not confined to Accessible Arts; her tenure at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) and Performance Space (now Carriageworks) helped shape the future of Australian contemporary arts. Fiona was involved in developing the Master of Fine Arts (Cultural Leadership) program, laying the foundation for future generations of cultural leaders who share her commitment to creativity and inclusivity.
Background or Timeline
Fiona’s journey in the arts was one marked by leadership and vision. As Director of Performance Space, she played a pivotal role in its transformation into Carriageworks, which has since become one of Australia’s leading contemporary arts centers. Her legacy also includes founding the LiveWorks festival, a landmark event that helped broaden the scope of experimental performance in Australia. Her contributions to the Sydney Festival and Sydney Opera House further cemented her role as a key figure in enhancing the reach of the arts.
Through her work, Fiona’s influence extended beyond the institutions she shaped, leaving an indelible mark on the leaders she mentored and the communities she supported. Her commitment to equity, creativity, and inclusive leadership continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
Public or Social Media Reaction
Following Fiona’s passing, heartfelt tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and artists she mentored. Many spoke of her warmth, generosity, and visionary leadership, remembering her not only for her professional accomplishments but for the kindness and support she extended to others in the arts community. Her legacy is reflected in the continued growth of the organizations she helped shape, as well as in the lives of those who carry on her mission.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
Accessible Arts, along with the broader arts and disability communities, has extended its deepest condolences to Fiona’s partner, family, friends, and colleagues. They have expressed that Fiona’s work and vision will continue to inspire future generations of artists, leaders, and cultural advocates. Memorial services and tributes will be announced, with many anticipated to gather in remembrance of her life and contributions.
Her passing is a significant loss to both the arts world and the disability advocacy community, but her impact will continue through the countless lives she touched, the programs she founded, and the leaders she mentored.
Closing
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
