Gilberto Gil

Gil served as Brazil's culture minister from 2003 to 2008, taking his understanding of cultural life into national administration. His work in office included questions of access, diversity and the institutions through which culture is supported. The ministerial years deserve attention as a substantial professional chapter alongside the music. Start with the documented programmes and responsibilities rather than the novelty of a singer in government. His case offers a close relationship between the two fields, but a clear change from making culture to administering public policy.