Gordon Bull 1958-2026
The School of Art and Design mourns the passing of Gordon Bull, who died yesterday after an illness. Gordon Bull was a member of the Art Theory Workshop (now the Centre for Art History and Art Theory), where he worked for 27 years. He served as Head of Art Theory and later, for two consecutive terms, as Head of School (2006-2013). As an art historian, Gordon’s encyclopaedic knowledge stretched across the European tradition, from the Renaissance through to the 20th century avant-garde. He was equally knowledgeable about Australian art from colonial origins to contemporary practice, and especially interested in the histories of First Nations practice and its institutional representation.
As Head of the School of Art, Gordon Bull oversaw a period of major transformation as the School was integrated more closely into the research culture of the ANU. Continuing his strong commitment for the Canberra arts community, he maintained a network of connections with local, national and international organisations, underlining the School’s role as a hub across this network. He served on the executive of the Art Association of Australia and New Zealand (AAANZ) and as Chair of the Australian Council of University Art and Design Schools (ACUADS).
After retiring from the School in 2018, Gordon remained engaged with the academic and artistic community. He was a consistent and supportive presence at exhibition openings, seminars and festivals in the Canberra region. His most recent lecture, "Neil Roberts’ 2000 Bounces for David Watt 6.5.99" was delivered on 2 August this year as part of the Drill Hall Gallery’s 2026/27 series “Artworks of Significance” .
Gordon will be remembered for his love of art and culture, his guidance and mentoring of generations of students and colleagues, his kindness, and generosity. Gordon is survived by his wife Deborah Clark and their son Frazer Bull-Clark.
Written by Associate Professor Chaitanya Sambrani.