![](https://fadmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/Christopher-Madden-‘Overthrowing-the-Oppressor-2023--800x589.png)
Paul’s Shows: ING Discerning Eye
6 November 2024 • Paul Carey-Kent
I’m one of the six selectors for this year’s ING Discerning Eye show
Will Gompertz: Artistic Director, BBC Veteran, Best-Selling Author
Meet Will Gompertz, the visionary Artistic Director of the iconic Barbican Centre, whose remarkable career spans across various realms of the arts and culture. Taking the helm in 2021, Gompertz played a pivotal role in reopening the Barbican after the pandemic-induced hiatus. Under his guidance, the Barbican embraced a daring and diverse program that captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Among the standout achievements during his tenure was the 2022 World Premiere of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production, “My Neighbour Totoro,” which shattered box-office records and left a lasting impression on theater enthusiasts.
Gompertz’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the stage. Notably, he collaborated with the brain injury charity Headway East London to curate the critically acclaimed exhibition, “Differently Various.” This groundbreaking initiative showcased the transformative power of art in promoting inclusivity and fostering empathy.
Before his Barbican venture, Gompertz served as the BBC’s esteemed Arts Editor for an impressive eleven years. During this period, he engaged in a multitude of captivating interviews with architects, artists, actors, writers, musicians, and directors, providing the audience with unique insights into the creative world.
Gompertz’s creativity and storytelling prowess go beyond journalism, as he has authored two internationally best-selling books: “What Are You Looking At?” (2012) and “Think Like an Artist” (2015). His latest masterpiece, “See What You’re Missing,” published by Penguin earlier this year, further cements his status as a literary trailblazer.
An esteemed lecturer on the arts and creativity, Gompertz has graced prestigious venues worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art, V&A, National Gallery, Picasso Museum, Louvre Museum, Royal Academy, and esteemed Oxford and Cambridge Universities. His captivating talks have inspired countless individuals to embrace their creative potential.
Beyond the artistic realm, Gompertz devoted seven years to the Tate Galleries, playing a crucial role in shaping their creative direction and launching the UK’s first-ever Performance Art festival, which earned a coveted BAFTA award.
With a rich portfolio of accomplishments and an unwavering passion for the arts, Will Gompertz continues to influence and shape the cultural landscape, leaving an indelible mark on all those who encounter his boundless creativity and unique perspective.
6 November 2024 • Paul Carey-Kent
I’m one of the six selectors for this year’s ING Discerning Eye show
4 August 2023 • Mark Westall
Will Gompertz appointed Director of Sir John Soane’s Museum. Will Gompertz, who is currently Artistic Director at the Barbican, will… Read More
26 June 2023 • Tabish Khan
Art-y reads to keep you in books over Summer
19 March 2021 • Mark Westall
The Barbican today announced that Will Gompertz will join the international arts centre in the newly designed role of Director of Arts and Learning.
12 July 2016 • Tabish Khan
A lively and good humoured debate, with a shock result
4 September 2009 • Mark Westall
Will Gompertz. Photograph: Christian Sinibaldi Will Gompertz, 44, the director of Tate Media, is predicted to become the next “star… Read More