The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) in Bristol has appointed Alison Bevan as a director. Alison brings significant experience with more than 15 years’ managing art establishments, most recently as director of the Penlee House Gallery in Penzance.
She takes up position on 1 August and will oversee the remainder of the Academy's exciting 2013 programme as she works with the team to develop the 2014/15 programme.
During her time in Cornwall Alison, pictured, significantly raised the profile of the museum and art gallery both regionally and nationally, creating many significant and memorable exhibitions including shows of the Newlyn School, the Pre-Raphaelites, the artists who gathered around the artists colonies at St Ives, Newly and Lamorna, and she is now completing a major exhibition of Graham Sutherland’s work as a war artist in West Cornwall.
Alison was awarded the British Empire Medal in in the 2012 Queen's New Year Honours List for services to cultural heritage in Cornwall.
In welcoming Alison, the RWA bids farewell to chair Kit Thompson who is returning to the Far East with his wife, Patricia, to oversee the founding of a residential college system within the University of Macau. He will be succeeded by Trustee Professor Paul Gough, deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of the West of England.
Prof Gough, an Academician of the RWA, said: “We were delighted with the calibre of applicants for the role of director which demonstrates the high regard in which the Academy is held. We are very pleased to be welcoming Alison to the role and know she will be building on the significant changes that the Academy has taken over the past three years.
“Kit is very disappointed to be moving on but this is a once in a lifetime opportunity that presented itself unexpectedly and we wish him all the best, as well as thank him for the significant impression he has made on the organisation during his time as chair.”
Dr Janette Kerr, RWA president, added: “Knowing the fantastic work Alison has carried out at the Penlee House Gallery over the last few years, we are extremely lucky to have her joining us. The RWA will benefit tremendously from Alison's direction, and I am looking forward to working closely with her.”
