“Duncan Dornan’s Legacy: Transforming Glasgow’s Museums and Collections”
Are you a fan of Banksy’s work? If so, you would have been thrilled to visit the exhibition at Glasgow’s Gallery of Modern Art in 2023. The show, titled Cut & Run, showcased 25 years of Banksy’s iconic graffiti art and attracted a whopping 180,000 visitors over its 10-week run from June to August. Not only did the exhibition draw art enthusiasts from near and far, but it also injected £13.5 million into the city’s economy.
But that’s not all that Duncan Dornan, the man responsible for bringing Banksy to Glasgow, has accomplished during his time with Glasgow Life. He has been instrumental in several other major projects that have had a significant impact on the city. From the £68.25 million refurbishment of the Burrell Collection to the ongoing restoration of the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, Dornan’s contributions have been nothing short of remarkable.
Under his leadership, Glasgow Life Museums have seen record numbers of visitors, with almost four million visits recorded between 2023 and 2024. What’s even more impressive is that more than half of these visitors came from outside the UK, with 85% citing the museums as a reason for their trip to Scotland.
Dornan’s dedication to diversifying the local audience has also been commendable, with 50% of visitors coming from parts of the city that experience high levels of deprivation. His efforts to repatriate objects to India and explore Glasgow’s role in transatlantic slavery and colonialism have further solidified Glasgow Life Museums’ reputation as a global leader in museum practice.
As Dornan prepares for retirement, Glasgow Life is on the lookout for his successor. The search for the new head of museums and collections has already begun, with the organization partnering with Saxton Bampfylde for the recruitment process.
Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life, has expressed her gratitude for Dornan’s exceptional contributions and believes that his legacy will be cherished for years to come. Glasgow’s museums have always been a source of pride for the city, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage. Thanks to Duncan Dornan’s vision and leadership, Glasgow Life Museums have reached new heights and continue to inspire visitors from around the world.
So, if you’re a fan of art, culture, and history, make sure to keep an eye out for the exciting developments at Glasgow Life Museums as they embark on a new chapter under new leadership. Who knows what amazing exhibitions and projects await in the future!
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