Bryony Robins - Co-Director at Royal Cornwall Museum

Bryony is Co-Director of the Royal Cornwall Museum, collaborating in leading its transformation. The aim being to create a vibrant arts venue, museum and community space in the heart of Cornwall: “It’s an exciting time, we have experienced some challenges, but with thanks to our supporters we worked through the most difficult time and have exciting plans in place. There’s momentum and a sense of optimism and some brilliant creative people working on a number of projects. Watch this space!”

Her background is in the arts, as a jeweller and in arts centres and galleries before moving into museums, and she is a Fellow of the Clore Leadership Programme. Bryony believes museums can be a catalyst “a link between our heritage and how we understand our lives today. They are a great way of bringing people together, building connections and creating space for brilliant ideas. They are an important resource for communities.”

1.     What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Being part of the team that are transforming Cornwall’s most important museum, creating a place to celebrate and share Cornish culture, and securing its future for many generations to come.

2.     What motivates you to do what you do?

I have some brilliant colleagues whose ideas and energy never cease to amaze me. Leadership is all about creating the right conditions for people to be their best, to thrive and flourish. I get excited and energised by the brilliant ideas and achievements of my colleagues.

3.     What do you owe your mother?

A sense of fun, a healthy scepticism, an interest in people and a love of nature.

4.     Which women inspire you and why?

Many, many women inspire me with their resilience and their steadfast stance on promoting female perspectives towards creating a better world. This may be people I meet in passing, or colleagues or leaders like Caroline Lucas for her strong moral values, relentless decency and for taking a stance in the toxic environment of our country’s governance.

5.     What are you reading?

I always read two books; one to help shut off thoughts and send me to sleep and one as a thought provoker, I also have an audio book on the go. At the moment these are; A Murder is Announced by Agatha Christie, Diving Belles by Lucy Wood and Strong Female Lead by Arwa Mahdawi. I will let you decide which is which.

6.     What gender barriers have you had to hurdle?

Museums are a female dominated environment, yet most of the of the leaders and Directors are male. People perceive leaders to look and behave in a particular way that isn’t particularly feminine. Like many others, I have experienced small and significant acts of sexism. It’s an ongoing struggle which we are challenging.

7.     How can the world be made a better place for women?

By creating space for women to be fully rounded humans, by recognising that what are perceived to be female traits are beneficial and, given full rein, could change the world.  

8.     Describe your perfect day?

A family picnic at the beach in the sunshine and a long walk on the cliffs in the sunset.

9.     We've noticed there really aren't many (if any) statues of women around Cornwall - who would you like to see remembered?

I would welcome a statue to the unknown woman, representing the many who have been suppressed or silenced, and who’s important work, voice and endeavours have gone unrecorded over time so they are now lost forever.

10.  Give us a tip?

I’m going to share my favourite quote by Margaret Mead:

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has."