People’s History Museum has appointed Dr Clare Barlow as its new Director. Dr Barlow joins the Manchester museum from the Foundling Museum, where she was director of programmes and audiences, and has previously worked at the Science Museum, Wellcome Trust, Tate and the National Portrait Gallery.

Dr Barlow completed her PhD in 2010, as an Arts and Humanities Research Council-funded collaborative doctoral award between the National Portrait Gallery and King’s College London. Her thesis focused on the role of eighteenth century women authors in shaping British identity. Her research contributed to the National Portrait Gallery exhibition Brilliant Women: 18^th Century Bluestockings.

In 2017 she curated the acclaimed exhibition Queer British Art, 1861-1967 at Tate Britain and in 2019 opened Being Human, a permanent gallery at Wellcome Collection that was shortlisted for the Arts + Heritage award for Permanent Exhibition of the Year. Announcing her appointment, PHM said: ‘In all her work she has placed considerable emphasis on how museums can better engage with themes of identity, justice and equality.’

Dr Barlow said:  ‘I fell in love with People’s History Museum on my first visit, seven years ago, and I’ve been back many times since to see their superb exhibitions and spectacular collections. Every time I’ve visited, I’ve found something new with an incredible story, from Thomas Paine’s writing desk to the extraordinary collection of banners. I’ve been inspired by their work with community experts on LGBTQIA+ rights, disabled people’s rights and stories of migration, projects that have been beacons to the sector. It’s an exciting time to be at the home of ideas worth fighting for and I’m delighted to be joining their amazing team and exploring with our audiences how we all can shape a fairer future together.’

PHM Chair Bernard Donoghue said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Clare to People’s History Museum. She has incredible experience of programming ground-breaking exhibitions from roles at world class museums. In all of her work Clare’s values of inclusivity, social justice and providing platforms for unheard voices shine through, and fit seamlessly with PHM’s mission and vision. We are excited that Clare is joining us in our quest to champion and explore the compelling stories of those seeking a fairer world for all and in the creation of the empowering experiences that PHM is renowned for.’

Dr Barlow follows in the footsteps of Katy Ashton, who was PHM Director for 14 years during a period that saw the museum expand to its current location in Manchester’s Spinningfields, where it occupies a purpose built space combined with a Grade II listed Edwardian building. She is now Head of Culture and Place Marketing at Sheffield City Council.

PHM announcement: People’s History Museum welcomes new Director.