Will Gompertz

Will Gompertz is one of the UK’s most respected voices in arts and culture, a bestselling author, broadcaster and seasoned arts commentator known for making creativity accessible, engaging and brilliantly entertaining. With senior leadership roles at two of the world’s most influential arts institutions, he brings rare insight into the power of creativity, cultural thinking and innovation in modern life and work.

Will is the author of the internationally acclaimed What Are You Looking At?, a lively guide to 150 years of modern art, and Think Like an Artist, an inspiring exploration of the habits and mindsets that help people unlock creativity and thrive professionally. His writing has appeared in The Times, The Guardian, and other major outlets, and he has even taken his cultural storytelling to the stage with his Edinburgh Fringe show, Double Art History.

A familiar face and voice in broadcasting, Will became widely known as the BBC’s first Arts Editor, celebrated for his warm, witty and insightful commentary. His interviews span global icons including Mick Jagger, Damien Hirst and Meryl Streep, and his career anecdotes remain audience favourites.

A former Director of Tate Galleries, Will was appointed Director of Arts and Learning at the Barbican, joining at a pivotal moment as the Centre approaches its 40th anniversary and prepares for a major renewal project. His role focuses on reimagining the Barbican’s vision for the next generation, strengthening its civic purpose, broadening access and inclusivity, and steering its artistic and learning programmes in a rapidly changing world.

A gifted communicator and natural storyteller, Will is in high demand as a keynote speaker, host and facilitator. He distils big ideas from the arts into meaningful lessons for business, leadership, creativity and personal growth. Insightful, humorous and refreshingly human, his sessions leave audiences with practical ways to bring more imagination and originality into their work.

Whether he’s demystifying modern art, exploring creativity in the workplace or sharing behind-the-scenes stories from a life spent with cultural trailblazers, Will Gompertz captivates, informs and inspires in equal measure.

To book keynote speaker Will Gompertz, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com