NEWS-FLASH:  I'm delighted to let you all know that I have been appointed as Director of Creative Development at Creative Scotland and will be taking up post in the summer of 2010. For more info go to www.creative scotland.org.uk or:Click here to download this file

ART-BYTES: Whenever something of note happens in the arts the 'great and the good' are asked for their views - usually in The Guardian. Whilst this is interesting it is rarely surprising and/or challenging. What about views from deeper in the sector that are more diverse? Let's hear from those with passion. If you have a burning comment on a hot-topics in the arts send it to me by email and it will be uploaded to this commentary:Click here to download this file

CULTURAL VOICES: Thus far there isn't a well-known cultural site that encourages individuals from the cultural sector to air their views on current topics of national interest. Send me a contribution by email and it will be uploaded onto this site. Example: The centre of our cities are being sold off to the highest private bidder who can introduce their own laws and stop you having access. This has happened in Liverpool, Bristol, Leicester and Stratford (London). One of the sites our national Olympics has become a city within a city and your freedom of movement and cultural expression is affected. If you want to read more go to the Guardian of 16 December, page 30 (article by Anna Minton) Well done Anna for letting us know.

OPINION PIECES: (being constructed)

PAPERS to come...

1. The Value of Research in the Arts (July 2010)

2. A New Framework for International Arts Engagement (July 2010)

3. Envisioning Diversity in Leadership (July 2010)

Forthcoming Engagements: Sweden (Malmo) May 2010