GATESHEAD.- Since 2005 Sir Ian Wrigglesworth has successfully overseen one of the regions most high profile and impressive cultural attractions. He has been a staunch advocate of BALTIC as a major asset within the national and regional business communities. For many years he has tirelessly championed the north east cultural offer, formerly within his role as Chair of the NewcastleGateshead Initiative where he led the NewcastleGateshead bid for Capital of Culture in 2008 and more recently for his work at BALTIC. After more than four years of continued dedication and commitment Sir Ian Wrigglesworth leaves BALTIC at the start of a new and exciting chapter under the guidance of the newly appointed Director, Godfrey Worsdale. He continues to be a huge supporter and friend of the arts and an avid collector of Contemporary Art.

The announcement was made at the scheduled quarterly Board meeting where it was agreed that the Deputy Chair Peter Buchan, Director of architectural company Ryder, will take up the role of Interim Chair of the Board. Following the Board meeting an informal farewell drinks reception was held with Sir Ian, the Board and staff in BALTIC’s new rooftop restaurant Six.

Sir Ian Wrigglesworth commented: “I am standing down as Chairman of BALTIC confident it has a strong future with many exciting prospects that will further enhance the contribution it makes to the world of contemporary art nationally and internationally. I am sure it will also make an even greater contribution to the cultural life of NewcastleGateshead and the North East and continue to help the region’s regeneration and enhance its reputation.

Godfrey Worsdale, Director of BALTIC added: “It has been a great pleasure to work with Sir Ian since becoming BALTIC’s Director in November 2008. Sir Ian has been a constant source of encouragement and guidance and has enabled me to settle quickly in to my role. Despite his many other responsibilities, the generous commitment of time that Sir Ian has given to BALTIC over the years has exemplified his tenure as its Chair. His contribution to the Board and the wider organisation will be greatly missed. We wish Sir Ian well with his future interests and activities.”