Testimonials

"Dear Marcus, thanks for the energy and passion that you brought to the Fund and all the talented cultural activists and artists that have become a part of the Fund's global community under your stewardship. Your contributions have made a great impact and made the Fund's presence felt stronger in many places where cultural expression is under pressure. During your tenure you have become a recognized figure in the Amsterdam and The Netherlands' cultural scene, sharing your vision, humor and stories to local audiences leaving a positive impression for the Fund. You shepherded the Fund through difficult times and budget cuts that placed a heavy burden on the team, our partners and also you personally."

Constantijn Van Oranje-Nassau

Honorary Chair

Prince Claus Fund

"Marcus' courage and foresight has proven to be a great asset and I do not hesitate in commending highly the tenacity and consistency with which he approached the challenges posed by a dramatically changing environment throughout 2020/21 in particular. Four short years later and we, as a board, are poised to bid him adieu as he embarks on a truly exciting venture. We couldn't be more proud of his achievement."

David Dennis

Board Chairperson

The Arts & Culture Trust

"Your steady hand and strategic leadership skills held the fort and steered the Foundation during the highly uncertain times of the global pandemic. You have a way of sailing organisations through rough waters into safe harbour for others to enjoy a gentle breeze."

"Marcus Desando has a sharp eye for anything that can be histrionically comical, but also for the subtleties of movement, body language and human interactions."

Paul Boekkooi

Opera Critic

IOL Entertainment

"Thank you for your meaningful contribution to the cultural field over the past years. Your leadership at the Prince Claus Fund has clearly made an impact, especially in supporting artists and cultural practitioners in places where culture is under pressure. Wishing you all the best in the next chapter, and appreciation for the work you've done in strengthening global cultural exchange."

"Your consistent commitment to culture, community, and global cultural exchange continues to make a meaningful impact across borders for artists and culture activists. Thank you for the work you do in amplifying culture globally through the fund and creating space for sustainable cultural leadership."

"Working with you will always be treasured with much respect and admiration and shared learning and experiences. Yes You Can and Yes You Will continue your leadership for all."

"I feel so fortunate to have crossed paths with you this year. Your words are powerful. Thank you for being a role model for those of us in this emerging field of culture and climate, and for reminding me that shared laughter builds stronger bridges than despair."

"He has mentored and nurtured many emerging artists and researchers in his highly impactful and meaningful career. His care and compassion for artists as well as his investment in development work will be missed in South Africa."

The Arts & Culture Trust

Official Statement

South Africa

"Desando's direction captured the emotional strain that the characters are forced to suffer by having to stave off the inevitable."

Alan Neilson

Opera Critic

OperaWire