We have recently welcomed Hannah Stone and Issie Tovey as the latest members of the South West Museum Development Board.

The Board aims to guide the work of the team by providing strategic and informed advice. Their primary concern is to ensure that the needs of the South West’s extensive museum sector are understood and fulfilled. This means listening to the sector and helping South West Museum Development add value to what happens on the ground. Hannah and Issie join our Board thanks to the Rising Arts Agency OnBoard programme.

Hannah Stone is currently working as a Customer Service Adviser at English Heritage, having recently completed a Heritage Management Masters at Bath Spa University. During her time there she worked with Cleveland Pools Trust, researching what local teachers want from the Pools’ education programme. Additionally, she worked with the Roman Baths to deliver “Heritage Hunters”, a series of summer holiday activities for children aged 7 – 12. Her particular interests include how heritage sites aim to reach older children and teenagers, as well as creating fully accessible sites that everyone can enjoy.

Issie Tovey is from the South West and has worked in the arts since 2018. She currently works at the British Museum in the framed works department. Prior to this she has worked as an art technician at Bonhams and Christie’s.  Her passion for museums stems from working at the Pier Arts Centre in the Orkney Isles where she worked in engagement. She gained experience in managing projects and writing acquisition applications. She has also worked as a freelance consultant for Rising Arts Agency working on projects with Bristol Libraries.  She has an interest in working with young people and exploring ways in which we can analyse museum collections.

Both new Board members will be bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table, which will address the changing needs of museums in the South West’s museum sector. To find out more about the Board and the other members, visit our Board webpage.