The Briton, who came to Singapore last Thursday, started work yesterday. He will hold the post for three years.

Speaking to the press, he said: 'I hope to encourage interactivity between the different art forms while remaining sensitive to each area's autonomy.

'Singapore provides the perfect environment for artistic innovation, lying at the crossroads of so many vibrant creative traditions.'

He takes over the post from National Arts Council chief Lee Suan Hiang, who was appointed as interim President and CEO in February, after the departure of Professor Robert Ely and two vice-presidents, Richard Berry and Alan Lourens.

Read the full story in Tuesday's edition of The Straits Times Life!