Annette Corbett

 Studying for the Goldsmiths MA gave Annette an overview of the arts in all its forms, as well as a solid grounding in cultural policy in the UK, Europe and beyond.  The opportunity to meet with industry professionals and learn about how arts organisations work in practice was invaluable, as was the chance to study with people from such a wide variety of backgrounds, interests and nationalities.  The course really reinforced the practical experience Annette gained as an intern on the decibel Showcase at the Arts Council from August 2008 to September 2009 (www.decibelpas.com), and helped her make the transition from a corporate background into the cultural sector.

Since April 2011 Annette has worked as a Programming Assistant at Southbank Centre, alongside Gillian Moore MBE (Head of Contemporary Culture) and Jane Beese (Senior Contemporary Music Programmer), assisting with festival planning and strategy, as well as programming events across the 21-acre site, including projects such as the Imagine children’s festival, Meltdown (curated this year by Ray Davies of the Kinks), the anniversary of the Festival of Britain in 1951, and the exciting plans for next year’s Olympics.

Annette found it hard work making the switch from Legal PA to the arts, and feels she has still got so much to learn, but is thrilled to be working in such a creative, vibrant organisation with incredibly supportive and encouraging bosses.  Annette feels that changing career has been one of the best decisions she has ever made.