Meet Tamily Cookson: The New Director of the Barbican Creative Hub

The Barbican Creative Hub is entering an exciting new phase as we welcome Tamily Cookson as our new Director. With over 10 years of leadership experience in the Creative Industries, Tamily will lead the Hub’s mission to support collaboration, innovation, and business growth in Lincolnshire’s creative sector.

Opening in Spring 2025, the Barbican Creative Hub will provide a dynamic space for freelancers, start-ups, and creative businesses, offering:

  • Studio spaces and co-working areas
  • Networking events and mentoring
  • Business support and funding opportunities

A Leader in the Creative Industries

Tamily has worked extensively across placemaking, business support, and talent development, helping to build creative communities across the UK.

A Wealth Of Experience:

  • Founder of COLLECTIVE. – A growing community for creative, digital, and tech innovators across the East Midlands, supported by Nottingham Trent University.
  • Creative Industries Consultant – Helping regional businesses develop growth strategies.
  • UK Council Member for Creative UK (2021–2023) – Advocating for industry development and policy.
  • Trustee for Nonsuch Studios – Supporting cultural and creative engagement initiatives.

Her experience in creative business support and urban regeneration makes her the perfect fit to lead the Barbican Creative Hub and drive growth in Lincolnshire’s Creative Industries.


Growing Lincolnshire’s Creative Economy

As Director, Tamily will oversee the Hub’s development, supporting over 3,000 creative businesses and freelancers in the region.

What the Hub Will Offer:

  • Creative studios & co-working spaces for freelancers, start-ups, and established businesses.
  • Networking events, workshops, and mentoring to help creatives grow.
  • A collaborative environment where designers, filmmakers, artists, and digital entrepreneurs can connect and innovate.

Speaking about her appointment, Tamily said:

“I am thrilled to join the Barbican Creative Hub at such an exciting time for Lincolnshire’s Creative Industries. The Hub has the potential to transform the region’s creative landscape, and I’m looking forward to working with the community to unlock its full potential.”
Tamily Cookson, Director of the Barbican Creative Hub

“We are delighted to welcome Tamily as the Director of the Barbican Creative Hub. Her wealth of experience in the Creative Industries will be invaluable in establishing the Hub as a key driver of Lincolnshire’s cultural and economic growth. Tamily’s leadership will inspire collaboration and innovation across the region.”
Sukhy Johal MBE, Founding Director for the Centre for Culture and Creativity


What’s Next for the Barbican Creative Hub?

With Spring 2025 approaching, exciting developments are in progress:

  • Memberships launching soon – Flexible co-working, creative studio spaces, and event opportunities.
  • Café Bar Reveal – A creative space for collaboration and connection.
  • Creative Business Support – Mentorship, networking, and funding opportunities.
  • First Events & Workshops – Tailored for creative entrepreneurs and industry professionals.

The Barbican Creative Hub is an initiative by the University of Lincoln’s Centre for Culture and Creativity, developed in partnership with Lincolnshire Co-op and City of Lincoln Council, with support from the Government’s Levelling Up Agenda.


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