Clare Lilley, Director of Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) has stepped down to pursue global opportunities, marking the close of a remarkable and transformative era in the organisation’s history.
Over more than three decades at YSP – most recently as Director of Programme and, since 2022, as Director – Clare has been a visionary force. She has shaped a world-class artistic programme, bringing leading voices in contemporary art to YSP, including Ai Weiwei, Amar Kanwar, Bharti Kher, Giuseppe Penone, Yinka Shonibare CBE, James Turrell and Joana Vasconcelos. Under her leadership, YSP has become not only a beacon of international contemporary sculpture but a site of deep cultural engagement.
Her curatorial instinct and commitment to collaboration have fostered lasting relationships with artists, collectors, foundations and galleries around the world. Clare has secured major acquisitions by Robert Indiana, Kimsooja, Sean Scully, Jaume Plensa, Alfredo Jaar, Ro Robertson and Erwin Wurm—each one a reflection of her eye, tenacity, and unwavering belief in YSP’s mission.
Clare has been a leading voice for inclusivity, diversifying the YSP collection and championing underrepresented artists. Her dedication to learning and engagement has expanded the reach and resonance of the programme, securing YSP’s relevance for all audiences. Her impact on the Park’s values and collection will be felt for generations.
Internationally respected, Clare has served as Curator of Frieze Sculpture in London for over a decade, contributed to the Venice Biennale, published widely, and held leadership roles on advisory panels and trustee boards—testament to a career defined by excellence and public service. Her understanding of landscape and architecture helped shape the physical fabric of YSP, including the design of two award-winning buildings that seamlessly integrate with the historic estate.
As Director, Clare has guided YSP through the post-Covid period, overseeing structural reforms and financial stabilisation. Her leadership in recent fundraising efforts has ensured YSP continues to thrive on the international stage. She also initiated a governance review, bringing in new trustees and executive team members to steer YSP towards its 50th anniversary in 2027.
Clare’s tenure concludes with the opening of a landmark exhibition by South African artist William Kentridge – a long-held ambition and fitting finale to her leadership. She leaves the organisation not only stronger, but more agile and ready for a vibrant future.
The YSP Trustees have begun the process of recruiting a new Director. In the interim, Deputy Director Kevin Rodd will step into the role, supported by the Senior Leadership Team.
Peter Clegg, Chair of YSP Trustees, said:
“Clare’s tenure has been marked by exceptional curatorial skills, which brought both new audiences and new artists to YSP. She has deep knowledge of international sculpture and its place in the arts pantheon and has made an invaluable contribution to establishing YSP as an internationally renowned and locally loved cultural institution. She leaves a lasting legacy at YSP, not least from the passion and dedication she brought to her role. We wish her all the best in her future ventures.”
Clare Lilley said:
“With deep gratitude and a full heart, I’m announcing my decision to step down as Director of YSP. This moment follows the launch of our William Kentridge exhibition and the success of major fundraising efforts, an achievement that brings vital investment and stability to the organisation I love. I’ve been privileged to spend a significant part of my career at Yorkshire Sculpture Park and will greatly miss the brilliant people with whom it’s been my good fortune to work. Their brilliance, dedication, and creativity have shaped a place that is cherished by generations of visitors. To witness what they give each day – quietly, passionately – is both thrilling and humbling. After so many years I feel as though YSP’s soil runs in my veins. Saying goodbye to the most inspirational and beautiful art museum in Britain is not easy, nor is parting from the remarkable artists who have given me more than I can ever express. Yet with both of my daughters now working abroad, and William’s exhibition marking a deeply personal milestone, I believe this is the right moment to explore new horizons. Throughout my time at YSP I’ve been guided by Sir Peter Murray’s founding vision: to bring incredible art and landscape to everyone and to enrich the economic, educational and cultural life of the region. I am proud that we’ve remained true to that mission – launching innovative learning and engagement programmes, enabling exceptional opportunities for artists, conserving 18th century landscape, increasing biodiversity, and giving joy to millions. YSP’s future is very bright. I have every confidence in the team and board as they lead this extraordinary place toward its 50th anniversary and beyond. My passion for art and landscape remains undimmed, and I’m excited to bring that energy to new ventures in the wider world.”
