Graham Devlin’s report, alongside the findings of the consultation, has made a valuable contribution to the realignment of our future arts work.  

In the wake of the report we are developing five priority programmes: showcasing, cultural leadership, development of our creative economy network, creative capacity building and introduction of a relevant arts element into our existing education, science and governance programmes.

We would like to take this opportunity to announce the appointment of Rebecca Walton as Director Arts. Rebecca will be continuing in the role that she has held in an interim capacity since April 2008 and will work alongside the future Chair of our newly formed Arts Advisory Committee. We will recruit for the Chair externally in January.

Martin Davidson, Chief Executive, British Council commented:

‘I am very pleased that Rebecca has been offered and accepted the role of Director Arts for the British Council. Following the consultation period and the findings of Graham Devlin’s report we have reached an important juncture in the way we approach the arts. Rebecca is the ideal person to oversee the development of our ongoing arts strategy.’

Rebecca Walton, Director Arts, British Council commented:

‘I am delighted to have been offered the permanent role of Director Arts. I look forward to continuing to work with the talented team that is already in place and to build on this expertise for the future. The arts have a unique ability to communicate across cultures and societies and are a vital part of the cultural relations work that we do. Graham Devlin’s report helps to give a useful insight in to our arts work and  gives us the opportunity to develop our arts strategy in keeping with our core purpose of building engagement and trust for the UK.’

- ENDS -

Rebecca Walton is available for interview via the British Council press office. Graham Devlin’s report and our full response will be available via our website at www.britishcouncil.org/arts-in-cultural-relations or by contacting Eleanor Hutchins in the British Council press office on + 44 (0) 20 7389 4981 or email: eleanor.hutchins@britishcouncil.org

Notes to Editors:

The British Council works in 110 countries worldwide to build intercultural understanding between the UK and other countries through the arts, education and training, science and technology, sport, good governance and human rights. Our income in 2006/07 was £551m, of which grant-in-aid from the British government was £195m. For more information, please visit: www.britishcouncil.org