The shock departure of Saltzman, who became director of arts and participation at the Barbican in February 2024, comes two years after her arrival and months after she unveiled a five-year creative vision for the venue. Saltzman was named recently as one of the 40 most influential women working in the arts in the UK, and described as the driving force behind the organisation. The Barbican refused to confirm the exit, with a spokesperson telling the Guardian it would be unable to comment on individual staffing matters.
The cultural destination, which opened in 1982, and is the home of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), has deteriorated "significantly" over the years. Plans to revamp creative and performance spaces as well as restore the brutalist foyers, Lakeside Terrace and Conservatory, have been given approval by the City of London Corporation which is funding 80% of the work. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the first phase finished by 2030.