Samantha has over 20 years’ experience working in the contemporary crafts and applied arts at Bluecoat Display Centre. She enjoys the changing exhibition programme, and all that involves, especially the hands-on aspect of the work.
Samantha’s responsibilities include: creative programming and curating; lead artist selection; press, publicity and marketing; accounts; fundraising and new developments lead; and website development.
Fran joined the Display Centre in 2010 after studying Fine Art, specialising in photography. She has helped the Bdc develop its education and event program, as well as curating various exhibitions.
Fran’s responsibilities include: event organisation; curating and visual merchandising; artist selection; marketing, publicity and managing social media; commissioning; accounts; fundraising; and website management.
Kate has worked at the Display Centre over the past ten years whilst running her own studio based jewellery business. Her jewellery has been sold very successfully at the Display Centre for a number of years.
Kate responsibilities include: curating and visual merchandising; event organisation; outreach programme development; artist selection; commissioning; accounts; fundraising; and website management.
Claire joined the team in 2019. She studied textile design, specialising in woven textiles, before completing a Masters in art history, curating and criticism.
Claire’s responsibilities include: curating and visual merchandising; event organisation; outreach programme support; artist selection; commissioning; and online shop and website management.
Al joined the team in March 2022. He has worked in the Merseyside arts community for almost thirty years and has extensive experience in accounting for arts organisations.
Al’s responsibilities include: in house accounts supervision and advice; VAT returns; bank reconciliation.
The team is supported by a number of skilled part-time Gallery Assistants, with experience in craft and design, galleries and retail, who provide assistance with the programme of gallery displays, during new developments and at key times of the year, such as holiday cover and Christmas trading.
Regular work experience is offered to students and job seekers as volunteers. We positively aim to promote diversity, and welcome involvement from all sections of the community. If you would like to apply for a volunteer placement, please send your CV, a personal statement and your availability to crafts@bluecoatdisplaycentre.com
Our board of trustees represent a wide range of experience across the craft and design sector, education, marketing, fundraising and business expertise, and provide key advice and support to the Bdc.
Chair: Alan Whittaker
Deputy Chair: Gill Curry
Board Members: Alison Appleton
David Backhouse
Maureen Bampton
Vicky Charnock
Kim Earle
Judith Fordham
Peter Woods
Anthony Wong