ArtsProfessional reveals the career paths of the sector’s senior managers.
Acting Head of Development, Arts Council England East (ACEE) (from November 2008)
I have just been appointed to this role and have responsibility for managing a team specialising in engagement, skills, creative learning, diversity and social cohesion. This post really feels as though it will bring together and draw on my diverse experience and skills.
Regeneration Officer, Arts Council England East (2005–2008)
My role has focused on developing the cultural infrastructure and creative economy in the housing growth areas, using the arts and creative industries to meet economic and place-shaping agendas. As ACEE project manager for the Thames Gateway, I have had the fantastic opportunity to play a pivotal role in the development of the Royal Opera House Production Park in Thurrock (see p16) and the relocation of METAL to Southend-on-Sea.
Arts Development Officer, South Beds District Council (2000–2005)
The highlight of this time was working as project manager for ‘arts|generate’, an ACEE pilot programme exploring the role of the artist in neighbourhood regeneration. This involved working intensively over three years with Freeform Arts and the residents of the Downside estate in Dunstable. The relationship continues to this day and the outcomes are truly transformative and inspirational. I also completed my MA in European Cultural Planning at DMU.
Forest Arts Centre, New Milton (1998–2000)
This is a small but very busy arts centre at the heart of a rural seaside community. As is the nature of working as part of a small dedicated team, my role involved everything from programming the participatory and outreach work to curating exhibitions and nurturing local talent
Voluntary Work, Fairfields Arts Centre, Basingstoke (1997)
On reaching the grand age of 30, the lure of a regular income became more attractive. To gain the skills required in arts administration and to beef up my CV I undertook six months of full-time voluntary work. Thanks to an enlightened director I was given the support I needed.
Practising artist and visual arts animateur (1991–1997)
In addition to making and exhibiting my own work, I also taught visual arts for adult and further education, youth services, and ran participatory workshops in arts centres across the south of England.
Southern Water residency with artist collective ‘Artsite’ (1993–1995)
What started as a property search for a cheap studio turned into an extraordinary two-year residency working with the retired utilities company workforce and industrial archaeologists in a disused pumping station.
Scenic painter/ props maker (1988–1991)
I worked for some great companies including Chicken Shed Theatre Company, Solent People’s Theatre and Nuffield Theatre, Southampton. I really enjoyed working as part of a creative production team.
Life model (1990–1991)
I firmly believe that getting your kit off in front of a room full of strangers stands you in good stead for most things!
Sabbatical President of Students Union, Kent Institute of Art and Design Canterbury
(1988–1989)
In hindsight, this was my first experience of managing an arts centre – everything from programming and marketing to bars and catering.