Sparking change through art and connection. Challenge accepted.
As Director of the Whitworth, Sook-Kyung Lee is redefining what it means to be a public art gallery in the 21st century.
Rooted in Manchester’s story of innovation and social purpose, she’s leading a cultural mission to make art more inclusive, more connected and more relevant – not just for the city, but for the world. Challenge accepted.
Sook-Kyung Lee, Director of the Whitworth art gallery at The University of Manchester, has been a curator for many decades. Her passion began in childhood, during a school trip to a Chagall exhibition that opened her eyes to the possibilities of creativity and the stories art can tell.
Founded in 1889 in memory of Sir Joseph Whitworth – the engineer, inventor and philanthropist from Stockport – the gallery was created to enrich the lives of Manchester’s people.
Today, Sook-Kyung continues that legacy, combining the Whitworth’s civic spirit with a modern mission: to make art accessible to everyone.
Growing up in Seoul, South Korea, before moving to the UK, she was drawn to Manchester by its history, its vibrancy and its forward-looking spirit. Through her work at the Whitworth, and in partnership with The University of Manchester, she aims to deepen engagement with art and culture - helping build fairer, more connected lives across the city.
“The Whitworth really is a gallery for everyone, not just for students and people at the university. It’s there for the whole city, the region and the nation – we're currently striving to make it more internationally and globally connected, because our lives are very much globally connected, as are our backgrounds and lived experience.”
Becoming Director was a defining step in Sook-Kyung’s career. As part of the University’s mission for teaching and research, she’s determined to show that art isn’t a luxury – it’s essential.
Through exhibitions, education and civic engagement, she’s making the case that art matters: it helps people see the world, and themselves, differently.
She believes art should reflect the world as it is, while inspiring us to imagine what it could be. Many still see galleries as distant or exclusive, but under her leadership, the Whitworth is challenging that perception, bringing art closer to everyday life.
“What we can offer is the most excellent and high-calibre, international art, as well as locally rooted artistic practice. I think anyone with some interest in art and culture will find something very relevant for them here.”
Like many cultural institutions, the Whitworth faces real challenges. Funding stability is one - vital to sustain its growth and community outreach. Political and social change also affects how the arts are valued and supported.
Sook-Kyung’s vision is to secure a sustainable future, giving her team the freedom to plan long-term and build certainty for the artists and communities they serve.
“One of the benefits of being an art gallery and a public-facing institution of the university is how we can really put accessibility and inclusion at the heart of what we do.”
The Whitworth’s collection brings together voices from across the globe. Exhibitions span continents and cultures – offered free of charge to visitors – ensuring anyone, from anywhere, can experience the world through art.
Even in difficult times, Sook-Kyung sees challenge as an opportunity to grow bolder. She wants the Whitworth to encourage people to engage with the present – to think widely about the world and their place within it.
“One great thing about art is it really has everything. Whatever your interest, passions, and expectations, we’re very happy to talk to you and show you the wide range of things we do, so you can find something you can dedicate your time and support to.”
The gallery’s success is built on community. Supported by the University, Research England, and Arts Council England, the Whitworth also relies on individuals and donors who share its vision – through gifts, volunteering and partnerships that keep its doors open and its collections alive.
Running an art gallery is costly, from conservation to programming, and support from donors ensures the Whitworth can keep growing, curating world-class exhibitions and making them accessible to all.
“The University of Manchester has a great vision for the next decade and beyond; I also have a really big vision for the Whitworth – becoming one of the most important art galleries in the world, beyond Manchester in this region, but very much anchored and rooted in Manchester's story and its people.
We can really show how one's journey can be the origin of a big extension, big vision and also a high aspiration.”
Looking ahead, Sook-Kyung hopes to strengthen Manchester’s role as a cultural leader, building on the city’s heritage of creativity and innovation. She wants the Whitworth to be a space that belongs to everyone: open, inclusive and full of possibility.
The gallery already has strong engagement with schools and families, and she takes great pride in the role it plays in inspiring young people. Her own path began with wonder, and she hopes The Whitworth will spark that same lifelong fascination in future generations. Challenge accepted.
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