I think established arts institutions need to reach out deeper into communities: local, further away, artists and audiences. We need to explore how our art is programmed, and who it’s for.
Welcome to the second-edition of the Cultural Comms 'Five Minutes with...' Summer special, which takes a look at the warm-weather plans of inspiring individuals working in the world of luxury, arts or culture.
Today, we're delighted to meet Tom Sleigh, the Chair of the Barbican Arts Centre: the second largest performing arts centre in Europe, bringing in 1.5 million people per year to the heart of the City of London. Now in his fourth year as Chair, Tom describes his tenure as 'quite the ride', encompassing senior leadership changes, the pandemic, and big shifts in audience behaviour.
Over to Tom...
If you weren’t the Chairman at the Barbican, you’d be...?
Hopefully on the board or chair of another large arts institution: somewhere exciting, radical and fun!
What do you see as the most significant trend shaping the arts industry this summer?
Community engagement. I think established arts institutions need to reach out deeper into communities: local, further away, artists and audiences. We need to explore how our art is programmed, and who it’s for. Are we ignoring audiences on our doorstep? And are we being radical enough in how we think about who our programme is for?
Where is your favourite al fresco drinking/dining spot?
The Barbican Lakeside, of course!
Where will you be holidaying this year / where have you already been on holiday to - and why?
I am currently in the Lake District, though I had a week in New York before I came here. I love the hills, hiking up them for the views, maybe even camping on them, and having a well-earned pint after a day’s walk.
What's your essential travel must-have / what do you always pack in your suitcase?
For City breaks I love ‘Away’ luggage: their carry-on size luggage is really well made, and has a battery pack built in. I always pack a bunch of chargers and every cable I might need for my devices. Top tip: iPhones charge twice as fast with a USB-C charger than USB-A, and if you only have a few minutes to charge, that makes a huge difference. I also like to bring a Bluetooth sender, which allows me to use cordless headphones on the plane or in a hotel room with the TV.
Have you ever had a ‘lightbulb’ moment related to your business or career while taking some downtime?
Yes! I like to talk out loud when I think, and find that hiking/walking helps my creativity – I’m sure quite a few people must have wondered who the mad guy is that they met on a mountain talking to himself. I’ve decided to apply for jobs and quit jobs when striding out on a day’s hike.
Find out more here: www.barbican.org.uk
