THE director of the Tweed River Art Gallery, Susi Muddiman, has been named one of the most powerful people in the Australian art scene.

Prominent art blog The Art Life announced its inaugural list of the 50 most powerful individuals in Australia's art world last week and Ms Muddiman was deemed to be the 46th most powerful person.

The list included art powerhouses like Federal Arts Minister Simon Crean, art critic John McDonald and Museum of Contemporary Art chairman Simon Mordant.

Ms Muddiman said she was flattered to be included in the list which included such heavy-hitters as gallery directors, arts administrators, commercial gallery dealers, philanthropists and curators.

"I don't see this so much as a personal honour although it's very nice to be recognised by the industry," she said.

"It's more about kudos for the gallery itself, the staff and all its wonderful supporters such as the Friends of the Gallery, The Tweed River Art Foundation and our energetic volunteers.

"It also cements our claim that we are well on our way to becoming one of the best regional art galleries in regional Australia.

"The entry in the list also indicates that we need better signage to the gallery."

Tweed mayor Barry Longland said the Tweed community should be proud of have such a prominent director for its flagship regional gallery.

Susi's experience was reflected in the quality of presentations and exhibitions shown at the gallery.

"Susi was instrumental in securing the Margaret Olley Art Centre for the region and for curating and touring great exhibitions such as the recent Michael Zavros and Euan Macleod shows," Cr Longland said.