Catriona Mordant AM Obituary: Art Gallery of New South Wales Mourns Esteemed Philanthropist and Arts Advocate

Catriona Mordant AM Obituary: Art Gallery of New South Wales Mourns Esteemed Philanthropist and Arts Advocate

The Australian arts community is mourning the passing of Catriona Mordant AM, a distinguished philanthropist, passionate advocate for contemporary art, and influential supporter of cultural institutions in Australia and internationally. Her remarkable generosity and lifelong commitment to the arts have left a lasting legacy that will continue to shape Australia’s cultural landscape for generations.
The Art Gallery of New South Wales expressed deep sadness at her passing, remembering Catriona for her dedication to artists, cultural development, and the transformative power of artistic expression. Together with her husband, Cav. Simon Mordant AO, she played an important role in supporting the gallery’s growth and strengthening its commitment to presenting outstanding contemporary art.
One of the couple’s most significant contributions was their support as founding donors of the Sydney Modern Project Campaign. This ambitious cultural development expanded the gallery’s capacity to showcase contemporary and international art, creating new opportunities for visitors to engage with innovative artistic experiences. Their involvement reflected a shared belief that art can inspire dialogue, broaden perspectives, and enrich communities.

Catriona also served as a Trustee of the Art Gallery Foundation from 2002 to 2011, contributing her experience and enthusiasm to the institution’s development. Her support helped strengthen the gallery’s collection and bring important works of contemporary art to Australian audiences.

Among the notable acquisitions supported by Catriona and Simon were Cy Twombly’s Three Studies from the Temeraire (1998–1999) and Thomas Ruff’s Ice Floe – jpeg ir01, jpeg ir02 (2005). These works demonstrate their commitment to expanding the public’s access to significant contemporary artistic achievements.

Beyond their involvement with the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the couple built one of Australia’s most significant contemporary art collections and became respected supporters of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney. Their philanthropy has helped strengthen cultural institutions and create opportunities for artists to reach wider audiences.

Catriona will be remembered not only for her generosity but also for her genuine appreciation of the people behind the art. Her influence lives on through the artworks she helped bring to public collections, the institutions she championed, and the artists whose work she supported.

The Art Gallery has extended its deepest condolences to Simon, the Mordant family, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing Catriona.

May Catriona Mordant AM rest in peace. Her enduring contribution to Australian culture will remain a testament to her vision, generosity, and unwavering belief in the power of art to transform lives.