Better arts leadership? In your dreams...

A photo of a black and white painting
27 Feb 2020

The Tavistock Institute’s courses have always embraced approaches outside of the mainstream. Heather Stradling tells Jonathan Knott how it’s now upping the creative element to take things to the next level.

Whittingdale is back: the new DCMS Ministers

20 Feb 2020

DCMS has welcomed two new ministerial posts and a former Culture Secretary after widespread speculation it would be dismantled.

Free to speak? Not if you work in the arts

A photo of statues of angels, one with a gag over its mouth
20 Feb 2020

As ArtsProfessional unveils the explosive findings from its recent Freedom of Expression survey, Liz Hill examines the soul of a sector that believes it is owed artistic freedom but doesn’t tolerate freedom of speech within its own ranks.

The human impact of avoiding controversy

A photo of violinists playing in an orchestra
20 Feb 2020

Reflecting on being wrongfully dismissed by the Royal Academy of Music, Dr Francesca Carpos says the sector must create a culture where controversial issues can be discussed without fear of unfair retribution.

I shouldn’t have been ‘cancelled’ for my vulgar jokes

A photo of a punk performance by Jayne County
20 Feb 2020

Yes, my crude social media posts may have caused offence – but we can't only allow speech we find agreeable, says Manick Govinda.

Institutions must show leadership on freedom of expression

20 Feb 2020

It’s often easier to steer clear of challenging issues – but we will all lose out if we censor material we find difficult, argues Julia Farrington.

Who is Oliver Dowden? Meet the new Culture Secretary

14 Feb 2020

Dowden’s record suggests he will focus more on the digital part of his portfolio than culture.

When the best response is an angry one

A photo of a lion roaring
30 Jan 2020

We should pay attention to what makes people angry - it points the way to growth and real change, says Hayley Williams-Hindle.

The benefits of a regular mental workout

A photo of a person doing press ups
30 Jan 2020

Reflecting inwardly on our values, motivations and mistakes is hard - but make the effort and you'll be rewarded with greater self-belief and genuine agency, writes Auriel Majumdar.

Want justice for arts freelancers? Just ask a pirate

A photo of people dressed as pirates playing brass instruments
30 Jan 2020

Looking for role models who are fleet of foot, democratic, and full of creative flair? Look no further than the Golden Age Pirates, says Sarah Shead.

Call for more collaborative cultural leadership

13 Jan 2020

The Creative People and Places scheme is helping develop a new generation of progressive arts leaders, according to research.

‘We are the wind’: discover the real factors behind change

A painting of a tree bending in the wind
09 Jan 2020

When leaders make personal change, organisational changes inevitably follow, says Richard Watts.

Arts professionals recognised in New Year honours

A photo of Elton John
02 Jan 2020

The former Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet and former Managing Director of Edinburgh International Festival are among those who received awards.

Classical music must face up to abuse

A close up of a hand and a violin
06 Dec 2019

Harassment will continue until institutions are willing to take difficult decisions, says Jonathan Knott.

How can heritage respond to a changing world?

A photo of a large glass door with text on it
05 Dec 2019

Climate change, activism, funding constraints, policy priorities… How can museums and heritage organisations adjust their presentation, programming, collections and business models in response to the challenging world around them? Being adaptable is the only way forward, says Tom Freshwater.

A truly national theatre? Exploring new ways to collaborate

A photo of a young man on a stage leaning against another actor
05 Dec 2019

National Theatre partnerships with theatres around the country are creating an opportunity for them to share and compare experiences and ideas across a mix of scales, locations and financial models. Lisa Burger explains what’s going on.

Death threat against NPO boss amid booking controversy

Photo of Middlesbrough Town Hall
15 Nov 2019

Middlesbrough Mayor argues "if we censor Chubby Brown then we have to censor lots of acts".

Vaizey stands down to pursue work in creative industries

08 Nov 2019

The former Culture Minister has resigned from parliament, citing a desire to specialise in the sectors he is passionate about.

Second senior Southbank creative lead departs

Tamsin Ace
08 Nov 2019

Head of Programming Tamsin Ace will leave the venue in December, as will Creative Director Madani Younis. Southbank has not confirmed whether it will replace Ace's role.

What will Ed do next?

08 Nov 2019

What might the UK's longest serving Culture Minister take as his next step? Amanda Parker makes some suggestions.

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