JANE SILLIS is stepping down as director of Engage after 20 years of leadership.
Alongside helping to establish Engage, the advocacy and support organisation for the UK’s visual arts sector and its work on engagement and education, Sillas has held consultant roles at Whitechapel and Ikon Gallery.
Chair of Engage, Professor ANITA TAYLOR, said Sillas had been “instrumental” to Engage’s development, providing “an excellent foundation” for her successor.
“Her passion, commitment and energy have ensured the visibility and excellence of gallery education and engagement for hundreds of members across the UK,” said Taylor.
Sillas said it had been an “honour” to lead Engage for two decades and a “privilege” to share insights advocating for inclusive, forward-thinking arts education at major platforms including Documenta, the British Council, and UNESCO.
“I’ve been lucky to work with amazing members and colleagues across the UK and internationally and to witness visual arts engagement and education flourish,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to having more time for my trustee roles at Spike Island Artspace and the Sharpham Trust, and developing my practice as a coach and consultant.”