Devyani Saltzman has abruptly left her position as Director of Arts and Participation at the Barbican Centre in London. Her departure, which comes just weeks after the arrival of a new CEO and shortly after she unveiled a five-year creative vision for the institution, marks another sudden leadership change at the major UK arts center.
The exit creates a significant leadership gap during a critical period of transition for the Barbican, which is planning a massive, multi-million pound renovation project. Saltzman was a prominent public figure for the institution and was seen as a key force in rebuilding trust with the artistic community following a recent controversy. Her departure underscores ongoing instability in the Barbican's senior management, following several other high-profile exits in recent years.