The Reel Store appoints Chris Michaels as new Director

The Coventry City of Culture Trust has announced the appointment of Chris Michaels as the first Director of The Reel Store where he will be responsible for the strategic direction and curatorial leadership. Most recently, Chris was Director of Digital, Communications and Technology at the National Gallery, London where he sat on their Executive Committee. He is a Senior Visiting Research Fellow at King’s College London and a Creative Industries Policy and Engagement Fellow at the Arts and Humanities Research Council. Blooloop named him one of a “Power 10 Museum Influencers” in 2022.

Martin Sutherland, Chief Executive of Coventry City of Culture Trust said:

“We are thrilled to welcome Chris as the first Director of The Reel Store. He is at the forefront of digital innovation in the cultural sector and with his leadership, experience, and pioneering thinking I am positive we will achieve our ambitious plans for the future.”

Chris Michaels, Director, The Reel Store said:

“I am incredibly excited to join The Reel Store as its first Director at this pivotal time. The venue is leading the way in a new generation of museums and galleries that are built on the possibilities of digital and we are delighted to announce the Life and Work of Frida Kahlo as its second exhibition.

We are certain that it will not only provide an unforgettably moving snapshot of Kahlo’s iconic story, but will also bring her thoughts, emotions, and artwork to life. The exhibition invites visitors to the core of the creative experience, taking them on an intimate journey alongside one of the world’s most loved and respected artists.”

The Reel Store is the UK’s first permanent, digital gallery which explores the relationship between digital technology, visual arts and people. The venue was opened by the Coventry City of Culture Trust in May 2022 as a major legacy of the Coventry UK City of Culture year. Featuring both world-class digital artists, emerging practitioners and state-of-the-art immersive technologies, it seeks to welcome 200,000 visitors in the next two years and become a hub for 5G, digital, gaming and AR/VR companies.