Welcome to Lead On – the newsletter from Clore Leadership which seeks to explore, stimulate and share perspectives on the issues currently impacting the leadership of culture. July has seen the releasing of lockdown restrictions across the UK - to mixed responses. The relief & excitement of a culture sector finally opening up is somewhat tinged with anxiety... is this too soon?... the best option?… brave?... or reckless? The verdict is out. But as we move through Summer, we can surely take heart from the courage and spirit of culture sector colleagues, as once again our venues, spaces, streets and even sheds(!) are abuzz with activities. The summer is set to ‘reboot’ and offer new moments to enjoy the rich panoply of cultural life. A life now digitally expanded to embrace innovations across cultures and countries, and across our screens, making digital our friend. Equally welcome has been the rekindling of cultural fires at the neighbourhood level, as the clarion call to ‘Support Local’ extended beyond shops and restaurants to local artists and cultural organisations, nurturing creativity to enrich lives much closer to home. Coventry City of Culture sits at the centre of this hyper-local innovation. A Year of Culture like no other, channelling its history of activism to navigate the pandemic, embedding local aspirations, ambitions and endeavours throughout its team, its programme and its legacy planning. As ever, this UK focus on culture shows us how creativity and inspiration can generate meaningful impacts far beyond regional and national boundaries. Coventry City of Culture's Creative Director and Clore Alumni, Chenine Bhathena, recently spoke to The Guardian: “The city is transforming around us. I think it will be really important to build pride for people here, and to be able to show off on a national stage, to help people understand the city as it is now,” she said. “After Covid, the city of culture is more important than ever.” We have spent much of the past 18 months in front of our screens. For some, that experience will continue to be the safest way to engage. For others, now may well be the time to close the screen, open the door and bask in the cultural exchanges that form the pulse of active lives. Take care. Be safe, and considerate of others. But do find ways to support our cultural sectors as they reignite the creative embers… Hilary Carty, Executive Director, Clore Leadership
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