Alistair Hudson Appointed Director of Manchester Art Gallery and the Whitworth

Alistair Hudson will become Director of Manchester Art Gallery and the Whitworth in the New Year, following his current role at Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (mima). The University of Manchester and Manchester City Council jointly announced his appointment on 12 September 2017. Hudson succeeds Maria Balshaw, who moved to Tate earlier in the year. At mima, Hudson established the 'Useful Museum' concept, focusing on community engagement and addressing local industrial heritage. He previously served as deputy director at Grizedale Arts in Cumbria, developing artist projects with regional communities. Hudson described Manchester's cultural scene as dynamic and diverse, praising Balshaw's work in democratizing art. He aims to continue this mission with projects that impact people's lives across the region. The appointment highlights Hudson's advocacy for the social purpose of cultural institutions.