In a notable protest, over 170 prominent cultural figures, including the acclaimed author Salman Rushdie, have signed an open letter directed to the Barbican expressing their concerns regarding the unexpected departure of its arts director, Devyani Saltzman. Her tenure, which began only in February 2024, has been characterized by her ambitious plans and recent recognition as one of the most influential women in the UK arts sector. The timing of her leave closely follows a significant leadership transformation at the Barbican, coinciding with the arrival of a new CEO shortly before her announcement.

Saltzman's exit raises questions about the stability and future direction of the Barbican, particularly as she recently laid out an extensive five-year creative vision for the institution. The letter, signed by a diverse coalition of creative leaders and allies, articulates a collective disappointment over the circumstances leading to her early departure, reflecting broader concerns about leadership changes within cultural organizations. These shifts are often indicative of ideological or operational transformations that can directly impact artistic programming and community engagement.

The response from the cultural community underscores a growing anxiety about the continuity of visionary leadership in arts organizations, especially amidst changing administrative landscapes. The Barbican has been celebrated for its diverse programming and engagement with the public, and supporters worry that Saltzman’s departure may hinder ongoing initiatives and the pursuit of innovative projects that resonate with the public. As the Barbican navigates these leadership transitions, the call for accountability and consistency in its artistic direction becomes increasingly prominent within the arts discourse in the UK.