Suffolk-raised creative leader returns to head landmark Ipswich arts programme

Why it matters: IP-Switched is one of the most significant cultural investments coming to Ipswich in recent years, and Matthews will lead how the money is spent across the town's neighbourhoods between 2026 and 2029.

The details: IP-Switched is Ipswich's major Creative People and Places (CPP) programme, funded by Arts Council England and announced in October 2025.

• The £750,000 Arts Council England investment is backed by support from Ipswich Borough Council, Ipswich Central and Suffolk County Council.
• The programme is described by the consortium as a "bold, community driven initiative" designed to bring cultural activity directly into the town's neighbourhoods.
• Matthews will oversee strategic delivery, working with consortium partners to embed grassroots decision-making and support local changemakers.

Her background: Matthews most recently led the artistic direction of Suffolk Libraries' National Portfolio Organisation investment.

• They have led placemaking initiatives in Stowmarket and Lowestoft.
• They spearheaded Ipswich County Library's major capital development project, which will see the creation of new community art studios, a gallery, a Library of Things, a refreshed digital learning hub and an enhanced children's space.
• Earlier work spans schools, Aldeburgh Young Musicians, and the Learning & Inclusion team at Britten Pears Arts.
• They spent time living in Vancouver working with Holocaust survivors, an experience that later informed Suffolk Community Libraries' Storyteller in Residence programme.

What they're saying: Melissa Matthews said: "We have some incredible community changemakers and organisations on our doorstep in Ipswich, additionally there are so many exciting developments happening in the town over the coming years. Throughout my career, I have seen first-hand the power creativity has to galvanise communities, build confidence and drive impact – I am delighted to be appointed as the new Programme Director for IP-Switched."

Douglas Rintoul, Chief Executive and Artistic Director of the New Wolsey Theatre, said: "Melissa brings a remarkable blend of creativity, insight and deep community experience to IP-Switched. Their track record across Suffolk shows a clear commitment to empowering local people and reimagining how culture is woven into everyday life. We are thrilled to welcome Melissa to lead this next exciting chapter for the programme and for Ipswich."

For context: The IP-Switched partnership is led by the New Wolsey Theatre and brings together Jobcentre Plus Ipswich, Ipswich Borough Council (Vibrant Towns & Communities), Ipswich Central, the NHS Ipswich & East Suffolk Alliance, and Volunteering Matters Ipswich.

The funding is made possible thanks to National Lottery players.

The bottom line: With a Suffolk-raised creative leader now at the helm, IP-Switched moves from announcement to delivery, with three years to put cultural decision-making into the hands of Ipswich communities.

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