Darren Pih

Darren is a History of Art master's graduate who now works as Head of Exhibitions and Collections at the Whitworth.

What does your job involve?

My role is to oversee the work of the curatorial and collections care teams at the Whitworth. I'm part of the executive team, working with the Director to shape and deliver our ambitious programme of exhibitions and collaborations, and managing strategic partnerships including national and international touring projects.

Why did you originally choose to study your course at The University of Manchester?

The course had a good reputation, as well as the cultural energy of Manchester.

How did your degree help prepare you for your current role? 

The course was transformative. I'd been working at Camden Art Centre in London for many years, though my career had plateaued. The course provided essential curatorial and museological skills, especially around linking research and critical thinking.

What has your career path looked like since graduation?

My studies at the University of Manchester led directly to a paid freelance research role at Tate Liverpool. I was subsequently employed as a curator. I was at Tate Liverpool for 17 years, initiating and delivering many of its most successful exhibitions including Radical Landscapes, Keith Haring, Transmitting Andy Warhol, and Glam! The Performance of Style. I subsequently worked as Artistic Director at Harewood House in Leeds, where I co-curated a major Biennial exhibition of international artists.

The research and critical thinking skills I developed on my MA still inform my role as a culture worker and curator. I’m pleased to be continuing my work in a leadership position at the Whitworth.

What were the most important things you learned as an Art History student at Manchester?

I learned that the history of art is not fixed. It can always be reframed, expanded and critically interrogated from a contemporary perspective. The quality and rigour of the tutoring was vital, as was the collective contribution and dialogue across the cohort of students.

What are the next steps for your career? What do you hope to accomplish in the future?

I plan to develop my career as a cultural leader at the Whitworth, to better embed research excellence across our programmes, supporting ways for researchers and artists to access our collections. I’m looking forward to working with our curators to develop and deliver must-see displays and exhibitions for Manchester and for the world. It’s a privilege and very exciting to be working with such a talented team of colleagues, within one of the UK’s leading university art galleries.

Do you have any advice for current/aspiring students?

Pursue what excites and motivates you. If art history sparks your imagination, or the thought of working in the cultural sector energises you, embrace it. Education is an investment in your own future, so choose a path that keeps you motivated and inspired. Manchester is one of the world’s great cities, packed with incredible free museums and galleries - including the Whitworth - right on your doorstep. Get involved in the cultural scene and student life.