Australian Design Centre pays tribute to Leon Paroissien AM, recognising his staunch commitment and enduring contribution to art, craft and design in Australia and internationally. As Chair of Australian Design Centre’s Board of Directors from 2005-2011, Leon brought vital support and energy to this organisation, and contributed to many others over his long career.
One of his early influential positions was as Director of the Australia Council’s Visual Arts Board from 1974–1980. He was also Director of the fifth Biennale of Sydney in 1984; founding Director of Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art from 1989-1997; Chair of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Co-ordination Authority Public Art Advisory Panel from 1996-2001; and founding Director of Taipei's Museum of Contemporary Art in 2001.
As Adjunct Professor, Design and Architecture, at the University of Canberra from 2004–2010, Leon wrote extensively on contemporary art and design. He was Chair of the City of Sydney’s Public Art Advisory Panel from 2007–2019, always a strong advocate for high quality public art and connecting artists to the community.
He truly lived his life dedicated to championing art and design and those who create it. Sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues, Leon will be greatly missed in Australia’s creative community.