TRIBUTES have been paid to the outgoing Artrix director Andy Woods who left the role last Friday (August 22) after nine-and-a-half years.
Councillors, trustees, staff, volunteers and members of arts organisations all gathered to mark the occasion of Andy Woods’ retirement before they reminisced over his time there.
Andy was commended for his tremendous hard work making the venue the success it is today and was praised for his ‘infectious, endless enthusiasm’.
Coun June Griffiths, Bromsgrove District Council’s chairman, was among those at the celebration.
She said Andy had played a big part in establishing Artrix’s great reputation and how it had been just a shell when he was first appointed in 2005.
“Bromsgrove can be justly proud of Andy and his achievements.” she said.
Kelvin Nash, Heart of Worcestershire College’s vice principal, was unable to attend the event but thanked Andy for helping to build a relationship between Artrix and the college through which so many students had progressed in performing arts careers.
Jim Page, Bromsgrove Arts Alive’s chairman, said Andy’s willingness to take risks had helped to create Artrix’s incredibly diverse programme of events.
Dorothy Wilson, chair of Artrix’s board, ended the night congratulating Andy on everything he had achieved with the venue and wished him all the best in his future endeavours.
Following Andy’s departure, the board announced the appointment of Ros Robins as the new Interim Director – she started on Monday (August 25).
And the former Director of Arts Council England Ros has many big plans for the venue’s future.
Ros has extensive experience of working in the arts and has most recently been designing and leading a programme for Liverpool Everyman and Playhouse Theatres to run alongside the continuing and developing programme of the Liverpool Playhouse.
Ros, who has also been an administrator and projects director at Birmingham REP, is widely regarded for her firm commitment to arts development and leading inspiring change.
Ros’ substantial experience of advocacy for the arts, together with a commitment to excellence and innovation has helped her to ensure opportunities to engage and participate in the arts and culture is available to as many people as possible.
