About Sawtooth ARI

Sawtooth ARI is an Artist-Run Initiative, based in Launceston, Tasmania, committed to servicing our local and national communities. We aim to support voices telling the stories that need to be heard now, practices that break from oppressive traditions, and those that take risk in thinking and idea sharing. 

As an organisation we are focused on bringing art and ideation to the community of Launceston, as well as supporting the emerging creatives living along the banks of kanamaluka.

Our staff and board create the framework of our organisation, but it is our artists, audience, volunteers and members, and the conversations they share, and the thoughts they have, that define who we are and will guide us into the future.

Sawtooth Ari is committed to continually moving forward as a progressive and ethical organisation. We will continue to pay artist fees and endeavor to be a socially responsible member of the wider Launceston community.

We continue to develop and implement models of operation that respond to our distinctive circumstances and geographical position; creating a sustainable organisation to service arts communities locally and nationally.

Current Board

Olly Read (Chair)

Trong (Allen) Nhan Le (Treasurer)

Wendy Robbins (Public Officer)

Clementine Blackman

Suzy Turner

Snéhi Jarvis

Travis Bell

Emily-Rose Wills

Sunshine Wood

Amy Jane Collins

History

The history of Sawtooth ARI stretches back more than 25 years. Emerging from Arts Alive, the organisation has continually adapted to the shifting dynamics of contemporary arts practice in Lutruwita/Tasmania. Across changing spaces, leadership, and artistic generations, Sawtooth has remained committed to artist-led experimentation, critical exchange, and the development of contemporary practice.

Chairs

2026 - present: Olly Read

2024 - 2026: Anna Barber

2019 - 2024: Clementine Blackman

2017 - 2018: Darryl Rogers

2015 - 2016: Karen Hall

2014 - 2015: David Hamilton

2013 - 2014: Patrick Sutczak

2013 - 2014: Mae Finlayson

2011 - 2013: Troy Ruffels

Directors

2021 - present: Zara Sully

2018 - 2021: Liam James

2017 - 2018: Paul Eggins

2015 - 2016: Patrick Sutczak

2013 - 2015: Marisa Molin

2012 - 2013:  Fernando do Campo