PRESS RELEASE : Mayor appoints David Bryan CBE as new Chair of Arts Council England’s London Area Council [December 2022]

The press release issued by the Mayor of London on 22 December 2022.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today announced that he has appointed David Bryan CBE as the new Chair of the Arts Council England’s London Area Council.

David will be responsible for leading the Arts Council’s work across the capital, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of arts and culture at a challenging time, following the impact of the pandemic.

A leading figure in the UK’s arts sector, David has vast experience of helping to drive change and improve diversity and representation.

He is the Chair of Brixton House the Battersea Arts Centre and Creative Lives (UK) and previously was Chair of the Arts and Creative Economy Advisory Group for the British Council. After studying for an MBA, David also became a management consultant, providing training and consultancy in the arts, not-for-profit and public sectors.

He is a member of the Mayor’s Commission for Diversity in the Public Realm and a trustee of Dunraven Educational Trust – roles that bring valuable knowledge of diversifying and expanding the sector to be more inclusive.

In this new role, David will work to increase the reach of arts and culture in the capital, improve diversity and support more young people to access the benefits of the arts.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “London is home to world-leading culture, arts and creative industries and David’s experience supporting artists and talent from all backgrounds will be key to this role.

“Culture is vital to the success of our city but the sector faces huge challenges following the impact of the pandemic and the rising cost of doing business. I look forward to working with David to continue championing and supporting arts and culture across the capital as we build a fairer and more inclusive city for all Londoners.”

Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, Justine Simons, OBE, said: “I am delighted that David Bryan will be the new Chair for the Arts Council’s London Area Council. David is a strong and experienced leader, bringing together a steadfast commitment to supporting established and emerging artists, and sound business acumen – exactly what is needed to drive forward the industry to continue to transform communities”

Tonya Nelson, Area Director, London, Arts Council England said: “We are delighted to welcome David as the new Chair for London Area Council. He brings a wealth of experience in the public, voluntary and arts sectors as well as an outstanding body of work surrounding diversity, inclusion and community development – all key priorities for the Arts Council as we move forward with our strategy, Let’s Create.”

David Bryan, CBE, said: “I am honoured to be able to work alongside the Mayor, Sadiq Khan, Deputy Mayor Justine Simons and the Arts Council to help drive forward London’s arts organisations for the benefit of all Londoners, and provide unique opportunities for artists and cultural institutions to develop.”