Dr Darren Henley OBE, Chief Executive, Arts Council England - 6 October 2021

Darren delivered a lecture as part of the Bristol Distinguished Address Series titled 'What is the role of arts and culture in a post-pandemic world?'

What is the role of arts and culture in a post-pandemic world?

Lynn Barlow (Assistant Vice-Chancellor, Creative and Cultural Industries Engagement, UWE Bristol) sat down with Dr Darren Henley OBE, Chief Executive of Arts Council England to discuss the role of arts and culture in a post-pandemic world.

Key points of discussion were the resilience of the arts and culture sector in the wake of COVID-19, funding for the sector, learnings from the pandemic, and fundamental changes the sector has experienced and will see for the future. They also spoke about the arts and culture sector in Bristol and investment in the city region and beyond.

Lynn then questioned Darren on politics and policy, with Darren explaining the elements that are most important for the new culture secretary, such as participation, access and social mobility.

Finally, Darren offered his advice to students entering creative careers, and then closed the lecture with a very engaging Q&A session.