Arts Council England
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New Chair of Arts Council England to be appointed as Sir Peter Bazalgette steps down in 2017
DCMS will launch a search for a new Chair of the Arts Council when Sir Peter Bazalgette ends his term in January 2017.
Speaking of his decision to end his tenure as Chair of the Arts Council after his first term comes to an end, Sir Peter said:
“Championing the arts and culture in this country at a time when public finances have been constrained has been a challenge, but one that I have enjoyed tremendously. And with another year to serve, there is still plenty to do.
“I have been extremely proud of the work we’ve done making the case for investment in the arts and ensuring that investment benefits more places. The Arts Council is in a strong position to ensure our arts and culture continue to flourish. I meanwhile have a number of opportunities in the Creative Industries I’d like to take up before I pop my clogs.”
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of the Arts Council said:
“Baz has been an outstanding leader for the arts and culture sector. He took over as Chair at a pivotal moment in the Arts Council’s history. He’s a listener, an advocate and a strategist; a great communicator who has reached out across the arts and culture sector, and beyond, building relationships and forming alliances. He’s never been afraid to tell it as he sees it; to speak truths as well as to encourage; and to look for new solutions to old problems. He’s promoted the digital agenda, challenged our approach to diversity, and introduced new ways of thinking about finance. He’s earned the respect of the arts and culture sector - and our stakeholders across Government departments.
“The recognition of the importance of arts and culture to this country in the recent Spending Review is a testament to the sustained and intelligent championing of public investment in art and culture by Baz throughout his time here.”
Culture Secretary John Whittingdale today also paid tribute to Sir Peter’s successful leadership of the Arts Council and contribution to the arts sector:
“Sir Peter has done a fantastic job leading Arts Council England over the past three years and has brought real enthusiasm and expert knowledge.
“He has made an invaluable contribution to the arts in this country and I would like to thank him for the incredible work he has done championing the sector.”
Recruitment for the new chair is expected to begin in the spring.
