Victoria Siddall has become the first female director of the National Portrait Gallery in London, replacing Nicholas Cullinan, who is now director of the British Museum.
Siddall, who will begin her new role in autumn of this year, has more than 20 years’ experience of leadership positions in the art world.
Most recently, she co-founded two environmental charities called Gallery Climate Coalition and Murmur. For the past two years, she has also worked with Tate as a strategic advisor.
Previously, Siddall served as global director of Frieze, leading four international art fairs across London, New York and Los Angeles. After securing the launch of Frieze Seoul, she became a non-executive director of Frieze in March 2022.
David Ross, chairman of the trustees at the National Portrait Gallery, said Siddall’s “strengths as a cultural leader are considerable, as is her knowledge of the art world, understanding of audiences and international profile”.
“I know that she has the vision and determination to build on our recent successes and lead the next stage of the gallery’s development, and I greatly look forward to working with her,” he added.
Lisa Nandy, the secretary of state for culture, media and sport, said Siddall will “bring a wealth of experience to this role”, adding that her leadership will “lead the gallery from strength to strength”.
Siddall joins the gallery after a major refurbishment. The building was closed for three years and reopened in June 2023.
Former global director of Frieze joins NPG
“I’m truly honoured to have the opportunity to lead the National Portrait Gallery, a museum that holds the world’s greatest collection of portraits and is unique in being about people and for people,” said Siddall.
“This is perhaps the most exciting time in the NPG’s history, following the recent reopening and Inspiring People project that the team delivered so flawlessly under Nicholas Cullinan’s leadership.
“The perfect stage has been built and I am thrilled to work with my new colleagues, the museum’s trustees and supporters, and of course the artists, as we look to the future and embark on a new chapter.”
Lead image credit: Benjamin McMahon
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