THE CREATORS Karen Livingstone
THE CREATORS Karen Livingstone
In this series, we explore artistic inspirations and relevant experiences, learning from the significant creatives working behind the scenes.
The Creator
Karen Livingstone is a dynamic force in Britain’s
Art and Design scene, known for her game-changing
approach to curation and exhibition display. In 2021,
The Fitzwilliam Museum appointed Karen as their Deputy
Director of Masterplan, Exhibitions and Major Display
Projects. She was tasked with transforming the historic
museum into an innovative and interactive cultural space.
Since early childhood, Karen has been finding inspiration
in art and design. After a combined degree in Fine Art and
Art History at Edinburgh University, she landed her first
museum role at Aberdeen Art Gallery before going on to
London’s V&A and the Science Museum Group.
Her experience shaped how she works today: creating
powerful contemporary spaces that tell compelling
human stories through displays.
Substance & Style
As a successful woman in the museum world, we
asked Karen if the role of women had changed in her
sector; whilst she acknowledged tremendous progress,
she feels there’s still a long way to go.
“There are some great female leaders in some of our
most important cultural institutions, but a lot of the
key jobs will still only go to men. One way to change
this is through the appointment system - by having more
inclusivity and representation in the recruitment process.”
We asked Karen if style played a role in her work.
“Definitely,” she said, “I think very carefully about
what I wear to work and how I present myself - as
a creative person, but also someone holding an
influential role.”
Karen’s style is considered; with a preference for fluid,
contemporary shapes and modern minimalism, she opts
for pieces that play with volume and proportion and
accessorises with sculptural jewellery. When asked
about her favourite Jigsaw pieces, she references a silk,
painted co-ord.
“I was excited to wear it because it was part of a
collaboration with an artist which made
a bold statement piece.”
Hockney's Eye
Now on at The Fitzwilliam Museum is ‘Hockney’s Eye’,
an exhibition exploring the art and technology of
depiction in Hockney’s work. Karen cites her
favourite work as Le Parc des Sources, Vichy, 1970.
“It’s a beautifully painted and contemplative
piece which is far more complex than its first
impression - it’s also a work you don’t often get
to see!”
Thanks to the generosity of three private lenders,
the exhibition is a chance to see several works
rarely on public display. Catch them at The Fitzwilliam
Museum before the show ends on the 29th of August 2022.