New chair of trustees at Smith
Winds of change are blowing through the corridors of Stirling‘s Smith Art Gallery and Museum.
Dr David Mitchell has been appointed as chair of its trustees, succeeding Colin O’Brien, who is stepping down after six years in the post.
Mr Mitchell has worked in the cultural heritage sector for 25 years and is presently director of conservation for Historic Environment Scotland.
He is a director of the National Wallace Monument, a professor at the University of Stirling, and a Stirling City Commissioner. He lives in Stirling with his wife and three children.
Mr Mitchell thanked Mr O’Brien for his long service , adding:“Colin navigated the Smith through a challenging period in its history to ensure it continued to serve the people of Stirlingshire and visitors from further afield.
“Under his tenure visitor numbers have increased and education has been a key focus.”
Following a career in education, Mr O’Brien was a Stirling councillor from 1999 until 2012, including provost from 2003-2007.
Among his current roles is a Deputy Lieutenant of Stirling and Falkirk and honorary president of the Boys’Brigade in Stirling and Clackmannanshire.
He said:“I have very much enjoyed my time at the Smith and the many people I have worked with over the years.
“The staff and fellow trustees are proud of our institution and whilst I have a tinge of regret it is time to pass on the baton to a new chair and a new director in September to act as stewards for this important asset.”
Director of the Smith Elspeth King retires in August after 24 years as director of the Smith.
Mr O’Brien was at the forefront earlier this year of a successful campaign to prevent Stirling Council from cutting £242,000 from the Smith’s budget.