Culture Counts appoints interim director at ‘pivotal monument’ for sector

Culture Counts in Scotland has named KATHRYN WELCH as interim director, taking the reins from LORI ANDERSON, who departed to become director of Festivals Edinburgh.

Most recently Welch was programme lead for Creative Scotland’s Culture Collective.

Previously, she was interim director for Creative Lives and operations director for Macrobert Arts Centre.

FIONA STURGEON SHEA, who chairs the steering group for the network of Scottish arts, heritage and creative industries organisations, said: “ As everyone knows, this is a particularly challenging time for the culture sector, following a long recovery from Covid, the impact of the ongoing cost crisis and damaging world events.

“Kathryn’s ideal mix of vision and pragmatism will be invaluable in navigating a complex path towards a more secure, fair and prosperous future. The steering group is delighted to begin work with her.”

Welch added, “I’m delighted to be taking up the role of interim director of Culture Counts, with the opportunity to build on the work of Lori Anderson to advocate for Scotland’s arts, heritage and creative industries.

“This is a pivotal moment for our sector, and I’m looking forward to working closely with the Culture Counts membership and steering group to promote and protect the vital, life-enhancing work of our arts and heritage organisations and of the wider ecosystem of creative practitioners, workforce and participants.”