The Winnipeg Art Gallery and Stephen Borys announcement

Winnipeg, MB (July 11, 2025): Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG-Qaumajuq) and Stephen Borys, Director and CEO, today announced that Dr. Borys will be stepping down from his role following a successful 17 year tenure.

During his tenure at the Gallery, Dr Borys oversaw the development of Canada’s Inuit Art Centre, Qaumajuq, now home to the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit Art in the world.

“We are grateful for Stephen’s leadership during a time of important creative expansion and growth”, said Aynsley Cockshott, Chair, WAG-Qaumajuq Board of Governors. “He played an instrumental role in shaping the artistic vision of WAG-Qaumajuq and throughout his career has organized countless exhibitions, written catalogues and scholarly articles and received numerous research and exhibition grants. It’s important to note that under his leadership, WAG-Qaumajuq has become a model of diversity and inclusion, embedding the values of equity, care, trust and responsibility into the work of the institution.”

“It’s been the honour of a lifetime to serve WAG-Qaumajuq and to work alongside such an extraordinary team, community and network of partners,” said Borys, “and I’m deeply proud of what we’ve built together—locally, nationally and globally. While there are countless meaningful moments, the creation of Qaumajuq, Canada’s Inuit art centre, stands as a defining highlight and one I will always hold close. I look forward to sharing some exciting news in the coming days about the new path I’ll be taking in the arts and culture sector—one that continues my commitment to leadership, inclusion and creative impact.”

The Board of Governors will initiate a search for a new Director and CEO. During this transition, Bill Elliott, Deputy Director and CFO, will lead the organization on an interim basis, reporting to the Board. With more than 15 years of experience at WAG-Qaumajuq, Bill will ensure stability and confidence in the gallery and, with the full support of the Board, provide steady management of its operations.

While a transition in leadership represents change, WAG-Qaumajuq’s commitment to its mission remains steadfast as it continues to deepen it’s impact, in service of the community. The gallery will continue to advocate for the power of art to change lives and to recognize that Art is a Voice.

“On behalf of the entire Board of Governors, we thank Stephen for his valuable contributions and wish him the very best in his next chapter,” added Cockshott.

Back to Media