King’s Ely has welcomed Lord Browne of Madingley to speak to Sixth Form students, staff, and guests at their annual James Bowman Lecture.
Lord Browne, an Old Elean, was the CEO of BP from 1995 to 2007 and one of the most influential men in the global petroleum business. Having previously delivered a lecture on hydrocarbons and renewable energy, his focus in this lecture was his passion for art and his role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Tate Modern.
Phoebe Ryan, a Queen’s Scholar at the school, who was present at the lecture commented, “Lord Browne gave a very powerful and captivating speech concerning the global role that Tate Modern plays in advancing modern British and international art. His passion for the arts was evident throughout his speech, exemplified his belief that art is the glue which holds humanity together. Lord Browne considers Tate Modern to be one of the key cultural hubs in London and he emphasised the important role its educational centre plays in fostering a love of art within people of all ages. It is for this reason that Lord Browne is devoted to increasing the Tate’s magnificent collection and global reputation”.
The Principal of King’s Ely, Sue Freestone, added, “It is always a pleasure to welcome John Browne to King’s Ely. His James Bowman Lecture bore testimony to the breadth of his engagement with the world around him and was an inspiration to all who were lucky enough to hear him.”