Collectively known as Fine Arts UWE, the University of the West of England’s Fine Art BA (Hons), Art and Writing BA (Hons) and Fine Art MA programmes are based at Spike Island, forming part of UWE’s city campus.
Our partnership focuses on providing excellent professional development opportunities for creative industries in the South West, including our art and curating students and graduates. Spike Island’s team, as well as numerous practising artists based in the artists’ studios, contribute to teaching and mentoring on UWE Bristol’s Fine Art and Curating courses.
UWE Fine Arts students take inspiration from our exhibiting artists, guest speakers, and our internal community of studio artists and arts professionals. After graduation, many artists apply to join Spike Island Associates or our Fellowship programme.
Many postgraduate art and design students are entitled to free membership of this programme, providing a valuable network that supports emerging creative practitioners. Additionally, each year, Spike Island’s Fellowships programme awards three UWE Bristol fine art graduates a funded studio, career mentoring and other professional opportunities.
Every year, UWE Bristol hold their degree show featuring a new generation of artists, designers and practitioners. The degree show combines exhibitions at Spike Island, Arnolfini, Bower Ashton and Frenchay Campus, accompanied by an extensive digital Showcase.