Sally Tallant, previously the head of the Queens Museum, is set to become the new director of the Hayward Gallery. Her appointment signifies a significant leadership transition at the Southbank Centre, a key cultural institution in London. Tallant's extensive background in curatorial leadership and her commitment to fostering a connection between art and community are expected to shape the Hayward Gallery's future direction and enhance the Southbank Centre's visual arts program.
A New Chapter for Hayward Gallery Leadership
The Southbank Centre has announced the appointment of Sally Tallant as the new director of the Hayward Gallery, effective July. This move follows the departure of long-serving director Ralph Rugoff, who concluded a distinguished 20-year tenure. Tallant will not only lead the Hayward Gallery, renowned for its contemporary art exhibitions, but will also take charge of visual art installations across the broader Southbank Centre campus. This cultural hub, situated along the Thames River in London, encompasses three performance venues and the National Poetry Library, making Tallant's role pivotal in shaping its artistic landscape.
Tallant's appointment is met with considerable enthusiasm, with Mark Ball, the Southbank Centre’s artistic director, lauding her as a "visionary leader and curator." Ball specifically highlighted her exceptional ability to create "world-class encounters that bridge the gap between art and community." This emphasis on accessibility and public engagement suggests a continued focus on making contemporary art relevant and approachable to a diverse audience. Her leadership is anticipated to build upon the Hayward Gallery's established reputation for innovative and impactful exhibitions, further solidifying its position as a leading institution in the global art scene.
From Queens Museum to London's Cultural Heart
Before her move to London, Sally Tallant held the prestigious position of president and executive director of the Queens Museum in New York, a role she took on in 2018. Her prior experience also includes directing the Liverpool Biennial and serving as head of programs at the Serpentine Galleries in London. Tallant arrived at the Queens Museum during a challenging period, marked by the resignation of former director Laura Raicovich due to disagreements with the board regarding a controversial event involving the Israeli government and then-Vice President Mike Pence. Despite these initial hurdles, Tallant successfully guided the museum, curating a diverse array of exhibitions featuring artists such as Fia Backström, Christine Sun Kim, Aki Sasamoto, Lyle Ashton Harris, and Mierle Laderman Ukeles.
Born in Leeds, Tallant expressed her honor in joining the leadership team of the Southbank Centre, stating her eagerness to collaborate with Mark Ball and CEO Elaine Bedell. She articulated her commitment to building upon the "outstanding legacy" of her predecessor, Ralph Rugoff, and to playing a key role in defining the next chapter for this significant cultural destination and civic institution. Her career trajectory, from leading a major New York institution through a period of transition to now taking the helm of one of London's most prominent galleries, underscores her proven leadership capabilities and her deep understanding of the contemporary art world.