Jane Rowlands has been chosen as the new Head of Museums and Collections for Glasgow Life. She has been a part of Glasgow’s museums for over 20 years and has been acting as the Head of Museums and Collections since August. This appointment follows the retirement of Duncan Dornan, according to Glasgow Life.
Throughout her career, Jane has been involved in various projects and programs within Glasgow’s museum service. Some of these include the refurbishment of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Phase Two of the Glasgow Museum Resource Centre, the Riverside Museum project, the reimagining of Kelvin Hall, and The Burrell Collection. Currently, she is leading the museums work for the refurbishment of The People’s Palace.
Jane studied English and Art at Canterbury Christ Church University and later obtained an MA in Conservation in London before joining Glasgow’s museums in 2000. Over the years, she has held positions in Collections and Conservation Management and has contributed to several research projects. Since 2011, she has been a Senior Museums Manager, supporting previous Heads of Museums and Collections.
In her new role, Jane expressed her excitement about leading Glasgow’s civic museum service. She is dedicated to increasing accessibility and engagement with the collections, aligning with Glasgow Life’s charitable aims of enhancing people’s happiness, health, and wealth. Jane is honored to have the opportunity to expand the influence and reach of Glasgow Life Museums, working alongside talented colleagues who possess unmatched expertise.
Billy Garrett, the Director of Culture, Tourism, and Events at Glasgow Life, commended Jane’s appointment. He highlighted her more than 23 years of experience with Glasgow’s museums and her integral role in their success. Billy expressed confidence in Jane’s leadership, emphasizing her passion and knowledge in advocating for the transformative power of culture in changing lives. He believes that Jane will strengthen the connection between the people of Glasgow and their museums, making these special places and collections even more popular.
Overall, Jane Rowlands’ appointment as the Head of Museums and Collections for Glasgow Life signifies a new chapter in the city’s cultural landscape. With her wealth of experience and dedication to enhancing accessibility and engagement, she is poised to lead Glasgow’s museums to new heights and foster a deeper connection between the community and its cultural institutions.