After five years as Curzon’s director of programming, Jason Wood takes newly-created role of artistic director for Manchester venue.

At Manchester-based HOME, Wood will programme international, and contemporary cinema, as well as commission, curate and encourage cross-art form collaboration.

Formed from the merger of Cornerhouse and Library Theatre Company, HOME is Manchester’s new purpose-built centre for contemporary visual art, film and theatre.

“HOME will offer a recognition of cinema’s rich heritage, historical importance and ability to inspire, provoke and challenge,” said Wood. “Film at HOME will act as a space for learning and engagement and a home for curiosity seekers.”

Wood joins Walter Meierjohann and Sarah Perks, in charge of Theatre and Visual Art respectively, in the artistic directorate for the £25m multi-arts venue that will open to the public in spring 2015.

The new building will feature five purpose-built cinema screens as well as digital production and broadcast facilities, a 500-seat theatre; a 150-seat flexible theatre and a café bar and restaurant.

As a joint appointment with Manchester Metropolitan University, supported by the BFI, Wood also takes the position of Research Professor of Film at Manchester School of Art, Manchester Metropolitan University.