Karl Chitham is a prominent figure in New Zealand's art sector, celebrated for his extensive contributions to Māori art and culture. With over 20 years of experience, Chitham has held significant roles in various art institutions, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to promoting toi Māori (Māori art).

Chitham began his career as a secondary school teacher, recognizing the profound impact of positive influences, whether from arts educators or youth workers.  Transitioning into the art world, he served as a curator at Rotorua Museum and later as Director and Curator at Tauranga Art Gallery.  In 2019, he was appointed Director of The Dowse Art Museum in Lower Hutt, Wellington, one of New Zealand's leading contemporary art galleries.

Throughout his career, Chitham has been instrumental in elevating the profile of Māori artists. He played a pivotal role in the establishment and curation of the Wairau Māori Art Gallery within the Hundertwasser Art Centre in Whangārei, the nation's first dedicated public Māori art gallery.  His curatorial projects often highlight contemporary Māori art, as seen in exhibitions like "Whatu Manawa: Celebrating the weaving of Matekino Lawless" and "Whenua Whatu: Māori Ceramics from The Dowse Collection."

As an author, Chitham co-edited "Crafting Aotearoa: A Cultural History of New Zealand and the Wider Moana Oceania," a groundbreaking publication that explores the rich tapestry of craft and making in the region.  His dedication to the arts extends to his involvement in various advisory roles, including serving on Te Roopu Mana Toi, an advocacy advisory group for Creative New Zealand, and contributing to charitable art trusts and arts organizations since 2009.

In recognition of his services to the arts, particularly Māori art, Chitham was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2023.
His leadership and advocacy continue to influence and inspire the arts community in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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