The Space announces new chair

RI CHAKRABORTY has been named the new chair of The Space succeeding SARAH ELLIS who has led the commissioning and development agency promoting digital engagement for seven years.

Chakraborty, who has over three decades’ experience in the audio-visual and creative sectors, is a senior executive producer and commissioner overseeing film productions and collaborating with international arts councils through arts strategy work.

A trained broadcast journalist, Chakraborty is also fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and has wide experience in governance, where she supports teams with transformational leadership. She is chair of the People Committee at Norwich University of the Arts and has recently chaired Aakash Odedra Dance Company in Leicester.

Her appointment follows an announcement that The Space will partner with Arts Council England and the BFI on a new programme aiming to transform how libraries across England interact with digital creativity.

FIONA MORRIS, chief executive and creative director of The Space said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ri as our incoming chair. Her passion, knowledge and experience in championing creative digital innovation across arts, broadcast and innovation is second to none and will be invaluable to us in identifying opportunities for cultural and heritage organisations to develop work using digital technology.”

Chakraborty added: “The Space are at the forefront of their field, and I have followed their trajectory closely since the organisation began in 2012.

“I am looking forward to acting as advocate and convener in the rapidly evolving world of digital and broadcast content creation, ensuring we remain resilient and forward-thinking. This is a very exciting time for us all with our collective strategic vision and future-planning.”

Ellis said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to serve as The Space chair over the past seven years. I want to thank the board, the executive and the entire space team and its associates, artists, partners and audiences for their incredible work over the past few years.”