Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Arts and Heritage Manager detailing the Art Gallery Bi-Annual Report, attached. 

The Committee considered the Art Gallery Bi-Annual report detailing the key activities over the last six months and looking forward over the next year. 

As a result of a contribution from the Hampshire Cultural Trust enabling extended opening hours post 3pm and opening on Sundays, it was noted the British Art Show 8 exhibition had attracted an uplift of 46% in visitor numbers. 

It was also noted that succession planning in the form of training sessessions were in place to assist with the departure of Tim Craven, Curator.  This would assist with ensuring knowledge of the Collection was shared with remaining staff.  Once the post of Curator had been filled, post April next year, Tim would be spending some time with the successful applicant ensuring a successful handover. 

The object of the training was to ensure resilience in the service, ensuring that knowledge is shared effectively with a number of staff in the Arts and Heritage Team.  The training would also include a number of lectures from invited guests. 

Discussion took place regarding what constituted a successful year, these included:

·  An increase in visitor numbers.

·  The ability to show more of the paintings held in the Collection at any one time.

·  Ensure evidence is collected and monitored on engagement with a variety of communities.

·  Widening engagement with the Collection with schools, faith groups and communities. 

It was agreed the Arts and Heritage Manager would provide the Committee with a breakdown of the number of visitors and specifically those attending as learning visitors.