With the generous support of the John Ellerman Foundation, the Trust has employed, Morag Iles as its Contemporary Art Curator. Morag first worked with the Trust between 2022 – 2024 on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with Newcastle University. The KTP built on the findings from the AHRC funded research project, ‘Mapping Contemporary Art in the Heritage Experience’ (MCAHE) to explore the role and practice of contemporary art commissioning at Vindolanda. Through an advocacy and action learning programme, the Trust experimented with new curatorial approaches and interpretation methodologies, engaging with artistic practice as a method of research and presentation. As a result of the project, the Trust embedded contemporary art programming into its 10-year business strategy. The partnership won the 2024 ‘Newcastle University Engagement and Place: Engaging for Cultural Benefit award’. 

Prior to her appointment with the Trust, Morag worked in the cultural sector as a Producer and Project Coordinator, namely working with artists and organisations working outside of formal gallery and theatre spaces. In previous roles, Morag specialised in fundraising, evaluation and project management, developing ideas from concept to reality, whilst supporting organisations and individuals to develop sustainable working practices.  Morag is passionate about working on interdisciplinary projects, utilising skills from across sectors and institutions to develop mutually beneficial partnerships and outcomes. In 2023, Morag completed her PhD with University of Glasgow and Glasgow School of Art. Conducted in collaboration with three Scottish residency organisations: Bothy Project, Cove Park and The Work Room, her thesis explored the value of artist residencies in the practice, career and livelihood of contemporary artists. 

This role with the Trust represents a step change in Morag’s career, supporting her to develop an interdisciplinary curatorial practice, which employs skills and theory from contemporary art and heritage curation.