Independent Arts, the arts for wellbeing charity on the Isle of Wight is undergoing a change in leadership at the end of September. Lisa Gagliani MBE, who has been the charity’s chief executive since late 2019, will be leaving to take on the same role at The Blue Lamp Trust.

After a careful recruitment process, the trustees have appointed Rosanna Sloan to take over as chief executive. Rosanna (Rosie) has been visiting the charity to get to know the team and to see for herself some of the projects and activities they deliver, which range from SingAbout for older people all over the Island, to working in care homes to deliver workshops for wellbeing, through to youth work, mental health support and various creative sessions run at their Newport Creative Hub on the high street.

The charity, which operates exclusively on the Isle of Wight, has a small team of dedicated staff, supplemented by a large team of professional artists and musicians, who are all paid to deliver the various projects to support more than 550 people every week who would be socially isolated otherwise.

Lisa Gagliani MBE said, “I’ve enjoyed every minute of my time, almost five years, at Independent Arts – the team, the volunteers and the arts practitioners are all exceptionally creative, wonderful and kind people. I hope to have made the charity a little more visible through working collaboratively with several island charities and by developing new projects, especially those aimed at younger people and intergenerational activities like chess on Saturdays. I wish Rosie and the team at Independent Arts all the best for the future.”

Jacquie Heany, Chair of Trustees who led the recruitment of Lisa’s successor said, “Lisa has been a fantastic CEO, significantly raising the profile and extending the reach of Independent Arts during her 5-year tenure. She joined the charity just before the pandemic and successfully steered it though those challenging times. The Board are grateful for the tremendous work she has done and for her leadership in developing and managing a brilliant team.”

“In appointing Rosie Sloan as our new CEO, the Board are confident that we have found an exceptional person to carry on the fantastic work of Independent Arts. Rosie’s warmth and enthusiasm were evident as soon as we met her, and she joins us with experience of leadership in both the charity and arts sectors. The Board are very much looking forward to working with her as we continue to develop the work of Independent Arts.”

Rosanna Sloan said, “It’s a privilege to join such an inspiring team and organisation. I’m looking forward to contributing to Independent Arts mission to change people’s lives through the arts, to help them to lead happier, healthier lives. I can’t wait to meet our volunteers, partners and participants over the coming months and carry on the incredible work Lisa has spearheaded in collaboration with the team.”

Independent Arts has enjoyed a busier than ever summer, with a stint at Ventnor Fringe with art in the park, followed by