Bernard Samuels (1932 - 2022) was the first full-time Director of Plymouth Arts Centre, from 1971 to 1996, and is credited with discovering the much-loved British artist Beryl Cook. Upon his retirement he was bequeathed the entire artistic estate of notable artist Ben Hartley. Samuels went on to share this work through major and retrospective exhibitions, newly composed music and two illustrated books.

Arts University Plymouth awarded an Honorary Fellowship to Bernard Samuels in 2018 in recognition of his outstanding achievement in social impact of the Arts in Plymouth, and his advocacy for emerging artists.

Bernard Samuels passed away in 2022, and he will be fondly remembered as an extraordinary advocate for creative, artistic talent.