Lauretta Morton OAM is the first female Director in Newcastle Art Gallery's 69-year history.

An alumnus of Oxford, Macquarie and Sydney Universities, Newcastle Art School, and the Australian Business and Company Director Institutes; she has over 35 years’ experience in arts practice, administration, senior leadership roles, and as an advisor to Government and Industry Boards.

Under her Directorship, Newcastle Art Gallery has achieved record growth in benefaction, audience participation, national and international awards, and the Gallery's major building expansion.

In 2022, Lauretta was awarded the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in recognition of her 'outstanding and meritorious service' to the museums and galleries sector.