Annie Silberstein

Annie Silberstein currently serves as the Executive Director of The Lester Prize for Portraiture, a premier national art award that celebrates excellence in portraiture across Australia. Since joining the organization in 2018, Annie has been instrumental in elevating the prize’s profile both locally and nationally, fostering a vibrant community around contemporary portraiture. Her leadership has driven the development of innovative programs that democratize access to art, including engaging community outreach initiatives and youth awards that inspire emerging artists. Under her stewardship, The Lester Prize has expanded its reach, creating meaningful connections between artists, audiences, and communities, and enriching the artistic ecosystem of Perth, Western Australia, and beyond.

Annie’s expertise in partnerships and community engagement has been central to the prize’s success. She has cultivated strategic collaborations with cultural institutions, educational organizations, and corporate sponsors, leveraging her networking skills to build sustainable relationships that support the prize’s growth. Her creative approach to event management has resulted in dynamic exhibitions, public programs, and digital campaigns that increase accessibility and foster dialogue around portraiture as a powerful medium for storytelling. Annie’s passion for democratizing art aligns with her broader commitment to nurturing talent and promoting cultural diversity within the arts sector. Through her visionary leadership, she continues to position The Lester Prize as a vital contributor to Australia’s artistic landscape, inspiring both established and emerging artists while engaging diverse audiences across the country.