Scotland's leading Arts Correspondent joins The Herald
He left the titles in February after more than 12 years as Arts Correspondent and 24 years with the company. His work in recent years has included the impact of the Covid pandemic on the arts, venues and events, and campaigns to fight Scottish Government cuts to cultural funding.
Ferguson, who takes up his post today, said: "It's really exciting to take on such an important role in Scottish journalism and to be joining The Herald during a key period in its evolution. There is no shortage of compelling stories to be told about all forms of Scottish culture, which plays a huge part in the lives of people the length and breadth of the country.
"Although the arts sector is emerging into a more optimistic era after a hard-fought battle to secure public funding, there are still plenty of challenges faced by artists, writers, festival organisers, performing arts companies and venues. I want to see The Herald at the heart of debates about Scotland's cultural life, holding key decision-makers to account, fighting for a fair deal for the arts, and championing the brightest new talents in theatre, music, visual art, comedy, film, television and much more."
'I want to see The Herald at the heart of debates about Scotland's cultural life' (Image: Colin Mearns) Ferguson's career began in 1990 at The Herald, which he joined after leaving school in Uddingston as a newsroom copy boy. He went on to study journalism at Edinburgh Napier University. He was City Council Reporter for the Edinburgh Evening News and Edinburgh Correspondent for The Scotsman before specialising in Scottish arts and culture.
At next month's Scottish Press Awards, he is shortlisted for Arts and Entertainment Journalist of the Year. He has made regular appearances as a Scottish culture commentator on BBC Radio Scotland, has previously been a judge for VisitScotland's Thistle Awards, the Royal Television Society Scotland Awards and the BAFTA Scotland Awards.
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He said: 'My roots with The Herald go way back to when I was a teenager and was extremely fortunate to get the chance to work in the Albion Street newsroom. My career in journalism began in Glasgow as the city was basking in the limelight as European Capital of Culture – my first taste of the transformational power of the arts. I'm thrilled and honoured that the journey I set off on 35 years ago has brought me back to The Herald at such an important time for this historic title and the arts industry.'
Catherine Salmond, Editor, added: "Brian is a brilliant addition to our growing team and we are thrilled to have him. His energy, persistence and proven track record will allow us to build on our existing arts coverage and offer readers unrivalled coverage in this field. I am looking forward to working with him and to delivering together. Exciting times for another chapter at The Herald."
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