Just now I'm working as...
Evaluation Consultant: New North and South
New North and South is a new network of eleven arts organisations from across the North of England and South Asia working together for a three year programme of co-commissions, exhibitions and intellectual exchange to celebrate shared heritage across continents and develop artistic talent. The network consists of Manchester Art Gallery, the Whitworth, Manchester Museum, Museum of Science and Industry Manchester, Liverpool Biennial, The Tetley in Leeds and Colombo Biennale (Sri Lanka), Dhaka Art Summit (Bangladesh), Karachi and Lahore Biennales (Pakistan), Kochi-Muziris Biennale (India) and the British Council. As evaluation consultant I'll be working with the project's director, audiences researcher, curators and artists to find out what the impact of the network and it's development is on each of the organisations, and the arts and curatorial practice of those involved. I'll also be looking at how the programme builds relationships with local audiences, and how effective the programme has been in establishing long lasting relationships with local South Asian populations and partners.
Image: Neha Choksi Untitled, 2017 (production still) Courtesy the artist and Project 88
Image: Neha Choksi Untitled, 2017 (production still) Courtesy the artist and Project 88
Association of Independent Museums Organisational Change Enabler & Heritage Lottery Fund Resilient Heritage Mentor
As an AIM trained Museums Enabler, and Heritage Lottery Fund appointed mentor / consultant for resilient heritage development and for engagement; I help heritage organisations look at their organisation and how to take it forward into a new political, economic and public landscape. This happens by challenging, advising, facilitating and supporting senior leadership and governance groups in thinking differently and improving their vision, structures and approaches to be more ready for a new climate. This might mean for example, reshaping governance structures or procedures; recruiting and managing specialist consultants or other providers; exploring new income generation potential; changing business models; and being up to date with legislative requirements. This builds on previous work as a social impact evaluator, coach, mentor, critical friend, charity trustee, fundraiser, Arts Council Resilient Museum Consultant; as well as 20+ years working in heritage and other sectors using mixed-economy models.