As Adult & Informal Learning Co-ordinator at Museums Sheffield, I developed the adult public programme, extending the range of activities, developing new audiences and raising the profile of events.

Patti Smith performing at the Millennium Gallery

I shaped the programme – thinking creatively about the exhibitions and collections, creating a regular framework, and developing sustainable partnerships which delivered new programmes to new audiences. For example, in response to the Artist Rooms: Robert Mapplethorpe exhibition, I invited singer Patti Smith for an in conversation, evening performance and book signing which gave new perspectives on the exhibition, as well as generating press coverage and income. In 2010-11, there were over 6,000 attendances to the programme. This was 3.5 times above the attendance target and also exceeded the income target by 15%.

I worked closely with creative practitioners to develop their ideas using the galleries as inspiration, re-energising existing classes and increasing attendance. In the words of one practitioner: “You’ve made me try new things and made me feel valued.”