Robin Simpson leaves Creative Lives

Robin Simpson leaves Creative Lives at a time of 'growing policy recognition of the importance of grassroots creativity'

Photo: Creative Lives

Changing Faces

Creative Lives leader retires after 20 years as ‘tireless champion’ for everyday creativity

Arts Professional
2 min read

ROBIN SIMPSON will depart from Creative Lives in May 2026, having led the UK-wide organisation advocating for community and volunteer-led creative activity since 2005.

Under his leadership, Creative Lives has delivered large-scale projects including research initiatives, festivals and the Creative Lives Awards, which showcase local creativity.

Before joining Creative Lives, Simpson was deputy chief executive of Making Music, the national umbrella body for amateur music, and he previously worked as general manager of the British Federation of Festivals.

“When I joined Creative Lives (then known as the Voluntary Arts Network), everyday creativity was often dismissed as a nice-to-have hobby,” said Simpson.

“Today, it’s increasingly recognised by governments, local authorities and communities for the role it plays in reducing isolation, giving voice to neglected communities and building civic pride and identity.

“With growing policy recognition of the importance of grassroots creativity, this is an incredibly exciting moment for someone new to lead Creative Lives through the next part of its journey.”

Chair GAVIN STRIDE added: “Robin has been a tireless champion for the benefits of creativity in everyone’s lives. It is a measure of his skill and care that he leaves Creative Lives in such good health.

“The whole board is hugely grateful for the leadership and organisational rigour Robin has shown to develop Creative Lives as an authoritative voice for everyday creativity.”