Opening hours Gallery: Wednesday to Sunday 12–5pm Café open: Tuesday and Sunday: 10am–4pm, Wednesday to Saturday: 10am–5pm.

Past Events

Past Events

Preview night: Sophia Al-Maria and Lydia Ourahmane, Grey Unpleasant Land

Friday 27 September 2024, 6–10pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

with Éilis Kirby Friday 20 September 2024, 10–11am
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Composite image of BSL facilitator Martin Glover and Donald Rodney, 'Visceral Canker' (2024). Installation view at Spike Island

British Sign Language Exhibition Tour: Visceral Canker

Donald Rodney Monday 2 September 2024, 6–7pm
Book your free ticket
A split image with a black and white collage artwork by artist Donald Rodney on the left, and a colourful collage work by artist Oshii on the right

I Am Making Art: Reimagining communities through collage

with Oshii Saturday 20 July 2024, 11am–1pm
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I Am Making Art Workshop taking place at Spike Island for Open Studios weekend

Baby Art Hour

with Éilis Kirby Friday 19 July 2024, 10–11am
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Donald Rodney Panel Discussion: Simeon Barclay, Keith Piper, Ian Sergeant and Marlene Smith

Wednesday 17 July 2024, 6–7pm
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Screening and In Conversation: Heather Marks and Fozia Ismail

Fugitives in the Archive Thursday 11 July 2024, 6–7pm
Listen now

Searching for a space that cares: Screenings and conversation

Amelia Hawk with Roux, eden, Saffron Murray-Browne, and Lily Serendipity Tuesday 9 July 2024, 6–8pm
Book your ticket
A photograph of a mother standing by a picnic bench, wearing shorts and a vest, with a child in a carrier on her back. The baby is wearing a large white bonnet.

Bring Your Baby Tour

Donald Rodney: Visceral Canker Wednesday 3 July 2024, 11am–12pm
Book your ticket
A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

with Éilis Kirby Friday 21 June 2024, 10–11am
Book your ticket
Four photographs collaged together showing a panel of artists and arts professionals.

Panel discussion: Sustaining artistic practice

Natasha MacVoy, Priyesh Mistry, Hannah Rose and Steven Paige Wednesday 12 June 2024, 5.45–7.30pm
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Preview night: Donald Rodney, Visceral Canker

Donald Rodney: Visceral Canker Friday 24 May 2024, 6–8pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

with Éilis Kirby Friday 17 May 2024, 10–11am
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Open Studios 2024

Friday 3 to Sunday 5 May 2024, 11am–5pm
Read about the weekend
Left: Cedric Fauq sits on a black chair on a stage. He holds a microphone, and is smiling as he speaks. Right: Olu Ogunnaike taking a photograph of himself through the gaps in a wooden structure. There are planks of wood in front of the camera, behind which we see him holding his phone and looking into the lens.

In Conversation: Olu Ogunnaike and Cédric Fauq

Saturday 4 May 2024, 1–2pm
Listen now

Preview night: Spike Island Open Studios 2024

Friday 3 May 2024, 6–9pm
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Five Acts Performance (Live)

Young In Hong / Bristol New Music Saturday 27 April 2024, 3pm
Watch the full performance
A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

with Éilis Kirby Friday 19 April 2024, 10–11am
Book your ticket

I Am Making Art: Hidden Stitches

with Ellie Shipman Saturday 23 March 2024, 11am–1pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

with Éilis Kirby Friday 22 March 2024, 10–11am
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Left: Image of Young In Hong. Right: Image of Fatoş Üstek

In Conversation: Young In Hong and Fatoş Üstek

Thursday 14 March 2024, 6–7pm
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A photograph of a women and her baby wearing headphones.

Bring Your Baby Tour

Olu Ogunnaike: Fix Your Face and Young In Hong: Five Acts Wednesday 6 March 2024, 11am–12pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour: 10th Anniversary

with Éilis Kirby Friday 23 February 2024, 10–11am
Book your ticket
Two people in foreground smiling and pointing at art inside of a studio with three people in the background.

Spike Island New exhibitions preview night

Olu Ogunnaike and Young In Hong Friday 2 February 2024, 6–8pm
Book your place

I Am Making Art: Pallet Portrait

Anna Haydock-Wilson, Caitlin Dawkes and Holly Humphries Saturday 13 January 2024, 11am–1pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour: Christmas Edition

Éilis Kirby Friday 15 December 2023, 10–11am
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Installation view of Ofelia Rodriguez's exhibition, Talking in Dreams, at Spike Island

I Am Making Art: Reliquaries and Shrines

Ben Hartley Saturday 9 December 2023, 11am–1pm
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In Conversation: Dawn Ades and Gabriel Pérez-Barreiro

Thursday 7 December 2023, 6–7pm
Watch and listen now

The Art Working Parents Alliance with Jo Harrison and Hettie Judah

Saturday 2 December 2023, 2–4pm
Listen now
A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

Éilis Kirby Friday 24 November 2023, 10–11am
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An image still from Are You Coming To Church? and portrait picture of Ama Dogbe

Digital Commission Event: Are You Coming To Church?

with Ama Dogbe Thursday 9 November 2023, 6–7pm
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A composite image of six film stills.

Screening and Conversation: Film London Jarman Award 2023

With Julianknxx Thursday 2 November 2023, 6–7pm
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A photograph of a mother standing by a picnic bench, wearing shorts and a vest, with a child in a carrier on her back. The baby is wearing a large white bonnet.

Bring Your Baby Tour

Ofelia Rodríguez: Talking in Dreams and Place Portrait Wednesday 1 November 2023, 11am–12pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

Éilis Kirby Friday 27 October 2023, 10–11am
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Dream and Make: For 5 to 11 year olds

Collage Puppets Wednesday 25 October 2023, 10.30am–12pm
Find out more and book your place
A fabric sculpture of a heart in an artist studio

Night of the Fellows 2023

Thursday 12 October 2023, 6–8pm
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A composite of two images: on the left, a headshot of the artist and, on the right, a woman covered by the curtain standing with her back against a window and holding a baby on each arm.

Behind the Scenes Artist Studio Visits

Amak Mahmoodian Saturday 9 September 2023, 2–3pm
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In Conversation: Asmaa Jama and Gouled Ahmed

Thursday 7 September 2023, 6–7.30pm
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A close up of Flo Brooks' painting 'The Dream'

I Am Making Art: Poetic Archives of the Everyday

Jack Young Saturday 2 September 2023, 11am–1pm
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Image of Caspar Heinemann outside in a field on a sunny day.

Poetry reading

Caspar Heinemann Thursday 27 July 2023, 6–7pm
Book tickets
A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

Éilis Kirby Friday 21 July 2023, 10–11am
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Screenshot of a YouTube video with two people in separate screens that are side by side. Both people appear from the shoulders up, smiling at the camera.

In Conversation: Flo Brooks and Brooke Palmieri

Tuesday 18 July 2023, 6–7.30pm
Watch and listen now
Installation view of Flo Brooks, Harmonycrum at Spike Island, 2023.

British Sign Language Exhibition Tours

Ciaran O’Breen Saturday 15 July 2023, 2–3pm
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A group of adults and children stood in a circle waving different coloured scarves as part of a workshop.

I Am Making Art: Seeing the Unseen

With Breathing Fire Saturday 8 July 2023, 10.30am–12.30pm
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A close up of two people in dressed white decorative clothes and jewellery sitting in a car at night time in bright pink light.

Poetry and sound performance: Ash is our inheritance

Asmaa Jama with MA.MOYO and sanka sounds Thursday 29 June 2023, 6–8pm
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A cyan blue close up of water in a swimming pool with sunny reflections.

Exercises in Exchange: Small Bodies of Water

Reading with Dot Zhihan Jia Saturday 17 June 2023, 3–4.30pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour

Éilis Kirby Friday 16 June 2023, 10–11am
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour 2023

Éilis Kirby Friday 19 May 2023, 10–11am
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Jars filled with fermenting vegetables on a windowsill.

Exercises in Exchange: experiments in caring well

Lucy Lopez and Fiona Graf Saturday 13 May 2023, 11am–1pm
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A man in a red tank top and jeans sitting on a bench against a grey wall.

Chantal Akerman: From the East

The Cube Microplex Cinema Wednesday 10 May 2023, 6.30–8.30pm
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A photograph of a studio with three people standing around a table looking at prints.

Open Studios 2023

Saturday 29 to Sunday 30 April 2023, 11am–5pm
Find out more
A photo of four young people in a gallery, dressed smartly and smiling.

Preview: Open Studios 2023

Friday 28 April 2023, 6–9pm
Book tickets
Interior of a mirrored pavilion suspended from the ceiling in a white gallery space.

FORECAST: Artists in Conversation

Rachal Bradley, Carlo Hornilla, Lauren Jeffery, Calum McCutcheon Thursday 20 April 2023, 6–8pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour 2023

Éilis Kirby Friday 14 April 2023, 10–11am
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A film still showing three people sitting on rocks in an open rural landscape.

Screening and Q&A: Marwa Arsanios

Who Is Afraid of Ideology, Part 4 Reverse Shot (2022) Thursday 30 March 2023, 6–8pm
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A light blue textured painting with layered materials by artist Howardena Pindell.

I Am Making Art

Connecting the Dots Saturday 25 March 2023, 11am–1pm
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A composite image of photographs of Ayo Akingbade and Anthea Hamilton side by side.

In Conversation: Ayo Akingbade and Anthea Hamilton

Friday 24 March 2023, 6–7.30pm
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A composite of two images: one of the artist kneeling on a tiled floor to draw on a piece of paper and the other of a historical statue of a female figure outdoors, obscured by plants and pink flowers.

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Huma Mulji

Saturday 18 March 2023, 2–3pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour 2023

Éilis Kirby Friday 17 March 2023, 10–11am
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Image of two children drawing and painting on a wall made of cardboard.

Dream and Make: For 5 to 11 year olds

Loose parts Saturday 11 March 2023, 11am–1.15pm
Find out more and book your place
Image of cartoon character Scrooge McDuck bathing in gold coins on top of an image of pigmented liquid.

Exercises in Exchange: Programme Launch

Shama Khanna, Rehana Zaman and Fiona Graf Thursday 9 March 2023, 6–8pm
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour 2023

Éilis Kirby Friday 24 February 2023, 10–11am
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The work 'Separate but Equal Genocide: AIDS' by Howardena Pindell alongside a film still from Ayo Akingbade's 'The Fist'

Exhibition Previews: Howardena Pindell, Ayo Akingbade, FORECAST

Friday 17 February 2023, 6–8pm
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Video still: Lawrence Abu Hamdan, 'A speculative portrait (for a boy who returned without his face)

Performance: Natq

Lawrence Abu Hamdan Wednesday 25 January 2023, 6–7.30pm
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Rosemary Mayer's flag hanging from the ceiling in Spike Island's galleries

I Am Making Art

Something in the Wind Saturday 14 January 2023, 11am–1pm
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Young children and parents at a Baby Art Hour event

Baby Art Hour

Éilis Kirby Friday 13 January 2023, 10–11am
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A toddler making art at a table

Baby Art Hour: Christmas Edition

Éilis Kirby Friday 16 December 2022, 10–11am
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The Body-Forest Closing Event

Tuesday 6 December 2022, 6–9pm
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Ways of Reading: Marathon Reading of Bernadette Mayer’s Midwinter Day

Rebecca Kosick / Bristol Poetry Institute Sunday 4 December 2022, 12–5pm
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Online Art Lecture: Jenni Sorkin

Dead Heroines Tuesday 29 November 2022, 6–7.30pm
Watch and listen now
Garry Loughlin

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Garry Loughlin

Saturday 19 November 2022, 2–3pm
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Screening & Conversation: Film London Jarman Award 2022 with Alberta Whittle

Thursday 17 November 2022, 6–9.15pm
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A photograph of a mother standing by a picnic bench, wearing shorts and a vest, with a child in a carrier on her back. The baby is wearing a large white bonnet.

Bring Your Baby Tour

Ways of Attaching / 45th Parallel Thursday 10 November 2022, 11am–12pm
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Night of the Fellows

Wednesday 2 November 2022, 6–8pm
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I Am Making Art: Travel Diaries

Victoria Wilmott Thursday 27 October 2022, 11am–1.15pm
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In Conversation: Lawrence Abu Hamdan and Lorenzo Pezzani

Online event Thursday 20 October 2022, 6–7.30pm
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Ways of Reading: Bernadette Mayer and the New York School

Rosa Campbell and Rebecca Kosick Tuesday 18 October 2022, 6–7.30pm
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Exhibition previews: Rosemary Mayer and Lawrence Abu Hamdan

Ways of Attaching / 45th Parallel Friday 7 October 2022, 6–8pm
Find out more and book your place
Two fisheye lenses viewing a forest scene in which ladder structures appear to be being built against trees

In Conversation: Amitai Romm and Andreas Ibrom with Robert Leckie

Tuesday 27 September 2022, 6–7.30pm
Watch and listen now

I Am Making Art: Pompom Synth Making

with PRRRRRT! DIY electronics collective Saturday 3 September 2022, 10.30am–1pm
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I Am Making Art: Drawing, Collage and Mark Making

I Am Making Art: Drawing, Collage and Mark Making

Cliff Andrade Saturday 30 July 2022, 11am–1.15pm
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Screening and Q+A: Clara Jo

De Anima (2018-21) Tuesday 26 July 2022, 7–8.30pm
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A scan of a 3D printed model on a black background

Exhibition preview: Amitai Romm

Hum Friday 22 July 2022, 6–8pm
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Portrait of Alvin Curran in his studio, Via Dell’Orso, 28 (Rome) (c) Adriano Mordenti (1980)

Talk: Times out of tune⁠, Alvin Curran or a Roman history of musical smuggling

Maxime Guitton Wednesday 13 July 2022, 7–8pm
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A dual image. On the left, a landscape painting in dark blues and greens, and on the right, a black and white photo of a mexican woman with shoulder length dark hair, wearing a white tshirt and dark jacket.

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Myrna Quiñonez

Saturday 2 July 2022, 2–3pm
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A photograph of a mother standing by a picnic bench, wearing shorts and a vest, with a child in a carrier on her back. The baby is wearing a large white bonnet.

Bring Your Baby Tour

When There’s No More Music to Write / Terratypes Thursday 30 June 2022, 11am–12pm
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An image split horizontally into two halves, featuring a birds eye view of pots of natural pigments in a range of colours.

Wet-Cells/Dry-Cells: an earth pigments workshop

Tanoa Sasraku and Pete Ward Saturday 18 June 2022, 10am–4pm
Find out more and book

In Conversation: Tanoa Sasraku and Rosalind Nashashibi

Thursday 9 June 2022, 7–8.30pm
Watch and listen now
A white man with dark hair putting up pictures on a white wall

I Am Making Art: Drawing and Character Building

Esther Hesketh Wednesday 1 June 2022, 11am–1.15pm
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In Conversation: Eric Baudelaire and Dan Kidner

Saturday 28 May 2022, 2–3pm
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Exhibition previews: Eric Baudelaire and Alvin Curran / Tanoa Sasraku

When There Is No More Music To Write / Terratypes Friday 27 May 2022, 6–8pm
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Performance: BEAMS

Alvin Curran Friday 27 May 2022, 7–8pm
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Isn’t Bite Also Touch? An event on Contagion and Desire

Veronica Vickery and Jack Young, as part of The Body-Forest programme Thursday 19 May 2022, 7–9pm
Find out more about this reading group

Nosferatu screening with live accompaniment

Surgeons Girl / Bristol New Music Sunday 8 May 2022, 6–8.30pm
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Reading Between the Lines: Joanna Walsh and Sian Norris

What Happens When a Woman Goes Online? Tuesday 3 May 2022, 7–8.30pm
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Around 50 people standing in a gallery space looking at artwork and chatting. A woman and her child lean over a pink sculpture on the floor as if to listen to it.

Open Studios 2022

Saturday 30 April to Monday 2 May 2022, 11am–5pm
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Spike Island Open Studios: Valda Jackson mural. Photograph by Lisa Whiting

Open Studios 2022: Preview Evening

Friday 29 April 2022, 6–9pm
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Film Screening: Laleen Jayamanne

A Song of Ceylon (1985) Tuesday 5 to Sunday 10 April 2022, 12am–11.59pm
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Talk: What Is the Relationship Between Truth, Memory and Fiction?

Claudia Durastanti and Jessica Andrews
Watch and listen now
An oil painting of three characters in an arid desert landscape. One has a pigs heads and humans body and is carrying a clipboard. One person is bent over inspecting the third character - a pig dressed in human clothes on the floor.

Talk: Of Pigs and Thresholds

Dr João Florêncio Tuesday 22 March 2022, 6.30–7.30pm
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In Conversation: Candice Lin and Neel Ahuja

A History of Future Contagion Monday 14 March 2022, 5.30–6.30pm
Watch and listen now
A composite image of three book covers

Finding Common Ground: A Reading Group on Land Justice

Jack Young, as part of The Body-Forest Thursday 10 March 2022, 7–8.30pm
Find out more about this reading group

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Katy Connor

Sunday 6 March 2022, 2–3pm
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The Body-Forest programme launch

Jack Young, Shrese Thursday 3 March 2022, 7–9pm
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Left to right: Adam Khalil; Bayley Sweitzer; Adam Murray, photograph by Alan Russell

In Conversation: Adam Khalil and Bayley Sweitzer with Adam Murray

Thursday 24 February 2022, 6.30–7.30pm
Watch and listen now
Image from Doctor Strange (2016)

Asian futures, without Asians

An illustrated presentation by Astria Suparak Tuesday 15 February 2022, 7–9pm
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Exhibition previews: Candice Lin / Adam Khalil and Bayley Sweitzer

Pigs and Poison / Nosferasta Friday 4 February 2022, 6–8pm
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A painting by Monica Sjöö

Monica Sjöö Readings and Publication Launch

Saturday 15 January 2022, 6–7.30pm
Find out more and book your place
Photograph of Lucy Stein and Maria Christoforidou Performing the Question in the exhibition Wet Room at Spike Island

Maria Christoforidou and Lucy Stein

Performing the Question Friday 14 January 2022, 6–7.30pm
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Talk: Ronald Hutton

On Britain’s Pagan Heritage Wednesday 12 January 2022, 6.30–8pm
Find out more and book tickets
Works in 2020-2021 Graduate Fellow Isaac Jordan’s studio at Spike Island

Night of the Fellows 2021

Online event Thursday 9 December 2021, 6–8pm
Book your place
BEEF film workshop composite event image

Workshop: Found Footage and Abstraction

Saturday 4 December 2021, 10am–4pm
Book your place
From left: Erika Balsom (2021) Photograph by Mike Gallagher; Peggy Ahwesh (2021) Photograph by Paul Samuel White

In Conversation: Peggy Ahwesh and Erika Balsom

Online event with BSL interpretation Thursday 18 November 2021, 6–7pm
Watch and listen now
Vicky Smith, Fig 3. Screen Tests (2020)

Spike Island Studio Visits: Vicky Smith

Online Wednesday 17 November 2021, 1–1.45pm
Watch a recording of this studio visit
Screening and Conversation: Film London Jarman Award 2021

Screening and Conversation: Film London Jarman Award 2021

With Sophia Al-Maria Thursday 4 to Friday 5 November 2021, 12pm–12am
Watch a recording of this conversation
Two photographic portraits paired together of Amy Hale and Lucy Stein

In Conversation: Lucy Stein and Amy Hale

Online event Thursday 21 October 2021, 6–7pm
Watch a recording of this conversation

I Am Making Art: Tile Relief Workshop

Enter the Fougou Saturday 16 October 2021, 2–5pm
This event is fully booked
Lucy Stein, Erotic encounters South West (2020)

Exhibition previews: Peggy Ahwesh and Lucy Stein

Friday 24 September 2021, 6–8pm
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Film Screening: Selected XI

Monday 23 to Sunday 29 August 2021, 12–11.59pm
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Selected XI panel composite image

Panel Discussion: Selected XI

Online event Thursday 26 August 2021, 6–7pm
Watch a recording of this conversation
A composite image of two pictures. One is a portrait of Valda Jackson, a black woman wearing a purple top, a colourful headscarf and glasses with green rims. On the right is a detail of one of Valda’s artworks, a bronze female figure, shot from the back.

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Valda Jackson

Online event Tuesday 24 August 2021, 1–2pm
Watch a recording of this conversation
A studio process revealing a light brown dyed quilted cushion being de-moulded

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Plenderleith Scantlebury

Online event Thursday 19 August 2021, 1–2pm
Watch a recording of this conversation
Mani Kambo and Annabell Pettigrew

The Exchange Summit

with members from Spike Island Associates, Extra-Ordinary People, CAMP, The NewBridge Project, G39, Turf Projects Friday 30 July 2021, 2–4pm
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Panel Discussion: Phyllida Barlow and Veronica Ryan with Frances Morris

Monday 12 July 2021, 6–7.30pm
Watch a recording of this conversation
A section of the Soufrière hills in mist.

Talk: Dr Stephen Sparks

Volcanoes and Us Wednesday 30 June 2021, 6–7pm
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Veronica Ryan, Untitled (2020) Crocheted doily, plaster, fabric cord

I Am Making Art: Rosa Martyn

Soft Construction Saturday 26 June 2021, 1–2.30pm
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Two photographic portraits paired together, featuring Veronica Ryan and Darby English

In Conversation: Veronica Ryan and Darby English

Thursday 10 June 2021, 6–7pm
Watch a recording of this conversation
text based image that reads Open Studios online

Open Studios 2021

Online Friday 28 to Sunday 30 May 2021, 9am–11.59pm
Explore Open Studios online

Spike Island FM

Broadcasting live on YouTube Sunday 30 May 2021, 11am–4pm
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John Wood and Paul Harrison, Demo Tape (2020), still from film

Film Screening: John Wood and Paul Harrison

The first thirty years Saturday 29 May 2021, 12.30–1pm
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Charlie Tweed, Notes From the Subsurface (2020), Film still

Film Screening: Charlie Tweed

Notes From The Subsurface Saturday 29 May 2021, 3–4pm
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Katy Connor, Hydro Poetics (2021)

Conversation: Katy Connor and Veronica Vickery with Nella Aarne

Vessels, Water, Mud, Care Saturday 29 May 2021, 4.30–5.30pm
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Carol Laidler's studio at Spike Island

Conversation: Esther Hesketh, Carol Laidler, Philippa Lawrence, Huma Mulji

At Home in the Studio Saturday 29 May 2021, 11am–12pm
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A script written in Blue san serif text on a white background

Reading Event: Natasha MacVoy and Carol Laidler with Caroline Vitzthum

Saturday 29 May 2021, 2–2.45pm
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Fifty Sounds / Polly Barton photographed by Garry Loughlin

Talk: Polly Barton

What does learning a different language teach us about identity? Monday 26 April 2021, 6–6.45pm
Watch the conversation

Talk: theVOV Lunchtime Tour with Pio Abad and Dr Dorothy Price

Life in the Margins Thursday 22 April 2021, 1–2pm
Watch the conversation
Novel-Writers_Brandon-Taylor_Real-Life_composite-event-image

Novel Writers: Brandon Taylor

Real Life Friday 26 March 2021, 6–6.45pm
Watch the conversation
Cover of the book Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Reading Group: Braiding Sweetgrass

Thursday 25 February 2021, 7–8.30pm
Find out more about this reading group
Photograph of Joy in Dance's Bollywood dance class

Lunchtime Shakeout

Watch the session
Image of the book Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Reading Group: Braiding Sweetgrass

Thursday 28 January 2021, 7–8.30pm
Find out more about this reading group
Production still: A blue circle sits behind a white rectangle with white rectangular shadows at the top of the frame

Film Screening: Laura Phillips

Beneath The Mead: cigar.lend.shave Thursday 3 to Thursday 31 December 2020, 12pm–12am
Find out more about this commission

Film Screening: Zinzi Minott

Fi Dem III: Ancestral Interference Friday 30 October to Monday 21 December 2020, 12pm–12am
Find out more about this screening

Live Audio Visual Performance: Laura Phillips and Joseph Kelly

Watch again: Dogtooth Spar Thursday 10 December 2020, 8–8.40pm
Watch a recording of this performance

Night of the Fellows

Online event Tuesday 1 December 2020, 6–8pm
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I Am Making Art: Cai Burton

Online session Saturday 28 November 2020, 1–2pm
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Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Rodney Harris

Online event Thursday 26 November 2020, 1–2pm
Watch the conversation

In Conversation: Denzil Forrester and Eddie Chambers

Watch again Thursday 19 November 2020, 6–7pm
Watch the conversation

In Conversation: Zinzi Minott, Denise Ferreira da Silva, and Joan Anim-Addo

Watch again Tuesday 10 November 2020, 6.30–7.30pm
Watch the conversation
Film London Jarman Award 2020 shortlisted artists stills. Top row, left to right: Larissa Sansour, Andrea Luka Zimmerman, Michelle Williams Gamaker, Project Art Works, Hannah Quinlan and Rosie Hastings, Jenn Nkiru,

Film London Jarman Award 2020: Screening and Conversation

Online event Thursday 29 October 2020, 12pm–12am
Watch the conversation

Novel Writers: Diane Cook

The New Wilderness Thursday 22 October 2020, 6–7pm
Book for Diane Cook's talk
Large red trucks drive across the shot. The image has been manipulated so that strips of the image are offset from one another.

Film Screening: Charlotte Prodger

Stoneymollan Trail Thursday 23 to Thursday 30 July 2020, 12–11.59pm
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Film Screening: Selected X

Monday 6 to Sunday 12 July 2020, 12–11.59pm
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Patrick Staff, Weed Killer (2017) Film still, courtesy the artist

Film Screening: Patrick Staff

Weed Killer (2017) Thursday 25 June to Thursday 2 July 2020, 5–11.59pm
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Film Screening and Live Chat Q&A: Adam Khalil and Bayley Sweitzer

Empty Metal Thursday 18 June 2020, 8–9.30pm
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Artist Eric Baudelaire is photographed standing against a grey wall, with his arms folded across his chest and he is wearing a white long sleeved top.

In Conversation: Eric Baudelaire and Erika Balsom

This event is cancelled Thursday 11 June 2020, 6–7pm
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Film Screening: Maeve Brennan

The Drift Thursday 28 May to Thursday 11 June 2020, 3–11.59pm
Watch online

Exhibition Tour: Eric Baudelaire

This event is cancelled Saturday 6 June 2020, 2–2.30pm
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Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Gwenllian Davenport and Izzy Mooney

This event is cancelled Sunday 31 May 2020, 2–3.30pm
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Film Screening: Larissa Sansour

In Vitro (2019) Thursday 21 to Wednesday 27 May 2020, 12–11.59pm
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Author Molly Aitken is placed next to the cover of her book The Island Child

Novel Writers: Molly Aitken – The Island Child

Watch again Thursday 14 May 2020, 6–7pm
Watch again

Open Studios 2020

This event is cancelled Friday 8 to Sunday 10 May 2020, 11am–5pm
Read more
A grainy photograph of a protest. People in the background are wearing yellow headbands and holding yellow flyers. They are also displaying a large banner where the words

Film Screening: Kidlat Tahimik

Why is Yellow the Middle of the Rainbow? (1994) Thursday 30 April to Wednesday 6 May 2020, 12–11.59pm
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Bristol New Music 2020

Cancelled Friday 24 to Sunday 26 April 2020, 12pm
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Robin Mackay, portrait photograph and the cover of Speculative Aesthetics

Art and Its Materials: Robin Mackay

This event is cancelled Thursday 9 April 2020, 6–7pm
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Portrait of Dr Zoé Whitley and Pio Abad

In Conversation: Pio Abad and Dr Zoé Whitley

Watch Again Tuesday 31 March 2020, 6.30–7.30pm
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In an industrial studio setting, two women with bobbed brown hair sit in front of the camera, not smiling. They are wearing a matching outfit of a black t shirt adorned with pink plastic gloves that have been inflated. Behind them is a large sign with MILK BAR written on it. In front of them is a table with glasses, a food blender, straws, and papers.

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Conway and Young, and Natasha Rosling

This event is cancelled Saturday 28 March 2020, 2–3.30pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

This event is cancelled Friday 27 March 2020, 10–11am
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Portrait photographs of the event speakers: Becky Kosick, Shagufta K. Iqbal, Karolina Ramqvist, Malaika Kegode, Janne Teller.

Launch Party: Bristol Women’s Literature Festival

This event is cancelled Friday 27 March 2020, 7–9pm
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British Sign Language Exhibition Tour

British Sign Language Exhibition Tour

Life in the Margins Saturday 7 March 2020, 2–3pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 28 February 2020, 10–11am
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Composite image. On the left is Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line book cover. On the right is a portrait of Deepa Anappara, wearing a red shirt and maroon glasses, looking off to the right of the image

Novel Writers: Deepa Anappara

Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line Thursday 27 February 2020, 6–7pm
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A head shot of a CGI young boy. He has fair hair, brown eyes, slightly rosy cheeks and is wearing a blue sweater over a yellow shirt. The background is black and his face is lit dramatically from below.

Film Screening: Diego Marcon

Thursday 6 February 2020, 6–7.30pm
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A photograph of a mother standing by a picnic bench, wearing shorts and a vest, with a child in a carrier on her back. The baby is wearing a large white bonnet.

Bring Your Baby Tour

Life in the Margins Tuesday 4 February 2020, 11am–12pm
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White thread stitched upon an antique Kashan carpet. The carpet has a flowery pattern with red, green, yellow, and blue colours. It is threadbare in some places. The white thread depicts a map with written annotations including

I Am Making Art

Textile Interventions Saturday 1 February 2020, 2–5pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 31 January 2020, 10–11am
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Pacita Abad Life in the Margins, Installation view,

Exhibition Tour: Pacita Abad

Life in the Margins Saturday 25 January 2020, 2–2.30pm
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Exhibition Preview: Pacita Abad

Life in the Margins Friday 17 January 2020, 6–8.30pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Christmas Edition Friday 13 December 2019, 10–11am
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Installation view of Meriç Algün's exhibition

British Sign Language Exhibition Tours

Saturday 7 December 2019, 2–3pm
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Film Programme and Q&A: Larissa Sansour and Søren Lind

Thursday 5 December 2019, 6–7.30pm
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AMRA (Imran Perretta and Paul Purgas) with Abbas Zahedi, Tadleeh and DJ EC RYDER

Friday 29 November 2019, 7pm–12am
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In Conversation: Imran Perretta and Amal Khalaf

Wednesday 27 November 2019, 6.30–8pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 22 November 2019, 10–11am
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Finding the Edge: The Writing of Anne Carson

Thursday 21 November 2019, 6.30–8pm
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Film London Jarman Award 2019: Screening and Conversation

Thursday 7 November 2019, 6.30–8.45pm
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Exhibition Tour: Imran Perretta

the destructors Saturday 26 October 2019, 1.55–3pm
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Installation view of Meriç Algün's exhibition

In Conversation and Exhibition Walk Around: Meriç Algün

Thursday 24 October 2019, 6.30–8pm
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Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Vivienne Baker and Judy Rodrigues

Saturday 19 October 2019, 2–3.30pm
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Bauhaus and Women

Wednesday 16 October 2019, 6.30–8pm
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I Am Making Art

Comic Stories Saturday 12 October 2019, 2–5pm
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Night of the Fellows

Thursday 10 October 2019, 6–8pm
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Novel Writers: Oyinkan Braithwaite

My Sister, the Serial Killer Tuesday 8 October 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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Exhibition Previews: Meriç Algün and Imran Perretta

Friday 27 September 2019, 6–9pm
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Novel Writers: Michael Donkor

Hold Thursday 26 September 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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Tour with the Architect

Friday 13 September 2019, 12–1pm
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Tour with the Architect

Friday 13 September 2019, 5–6pm
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CANCELLED: Closing Performance: Demelza Toy Toy, Jol Thomson, Hannah Catherine Jones and Libita Sibungu

Saturday 7 September 2019, 7–8pm
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Film Screening: The Andre Trilogy

Thursday 29 August 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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Novel Writers: Adam Scovell

Mothlight Thursday 22 August 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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I Am Making Art

Holding a Memory Saturday 27 July 2019, 2–5pm
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In Conversation: Libita Sibungu and Robert Leckie

Thursday 25 July 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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Behind the Scenes Studio Visits: Victoria Coombes and Laura Phillips

Saturday 20 July 2019, 2–3.30pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 19 July 2019, 10–11am
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Novel Writers: Caoilinn Hughes

Orchid & the Wasp Thursday 11 July 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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In Conversation: James N. Kienitz Wilkins and Shama Khanna

Saturday 6 July 2019, 2–3pm
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Exhibition Previews: Libita Sibungu and James N. Kienitz Wilkins

Friday 5 July 2019, 6–9pm
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Performance: Imani Robinson and Libita Sibungu

Welcome Note in a Welcome Speech Friday 5 July 2019, 7.30pm
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Image of glazed ceramic pinch pots

Pinch Pot Workshop

Tuesday 18 to Tuesday 25 June 2019, 7–9pm
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Film Screening: Selected 9

Thursday 20 June 2019, 6.30–8pm
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The Sculpture – Vacant State, exhibition view between 6, Kunsthalle Düsseldorf, 1971. Courtesy Barbara Steveni

Incidental Futures

Incidental Meeting Saturday 15 June 2019, 2–5pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 14 June 2019, 10–11am
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Sarah Rhys, Ritual Archaeology

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits

Sarah Rhys and Valda Jackson Saturday 8 June 2019, 2–3.30pm
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Paul Simon Richards, Quasi-Monte Carlo. Screenshot/ production image (2016)

In Conversation: Paul Simon Richards and Esther Leslie

Tuesday 4 June 2019, 6.30–8pm
Listen again
Ball-shaped waste fabric from studio floor. Courtesy Young In Hong

I am Making Art

Un-Splitting Saturday 25 May 2019, 2–5pm
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Sriwhana Spong, a hook but no fish (2018) Installation view, Govett Brewster Art Gallery (2018). Photograph by Sam Hartnett

In Conversation: Sriwhana Spong and Vera Mey

Thursday 23 May 2019, 6.30–8pm
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Novel Writers: Spike Island, Kim Sherwood, Testament

Novel Writers: Kim Sherwood

Testament Thursday 16 May 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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Three visitors look at sculptural work in an artists' studio.

Open Studios 2019

Saturday 4 to Monday 6 May 2019, 11am–5pm
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Two visitors study a table top at Open Studios 2017.

Open Studios 2019: Preview Evening

Friday 3 May 2019, 6–9pm
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Sriwhana Spong, a hook but no fish (2018) Govett Brewster Art Gallery (2018). Photograph by Sam Hartnett

Exhibition Tour: Sriwhana Spong

Ida-Ida Saturday 27 April 2019, 2–3pm
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Candice-Carty-Williams, QUEENIE

Novel Writers: Candice Carty-Williams

QUEENIE Thursday 25 April 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 12 April 2019, 10–11am
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Sriwhana Spong, Performance of Tasseography of a Rat's Nest (extended) (2018). Instrument B (Vivian) (2016). Aluminium bars, wood, Perspex, rubber, felt, brass.

I Am Making Art

He aha e tangi te kainga rite? / What sounds like home? Saturday 6 April 2019, 11am–1pm
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Sriwhana Spong, Instrument B (Vivian) (2016) Wood, acrylic, rubber

Performances: Benjamin Ord and Uniform

Friday 5 April 2019, 7–7.30pm
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Sriwhana Spong, The painter-tailor (2019) Film still / Paul Simon Richards, Quasi-Monte Carlo (2019) Film still

Exhibition Previews: Sriwhana Spong, Paul Simon Richards and Nicholas Wright

Friday 5 April 2019, 6–9pm
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Film still: A stretched out hand

I am Making Art

Sigils and Symbols Saturday 23 March 2019, 2–5pm
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Woman reading a book outside. Zelda Fitzgerald event at Spike Island, Bristol

A celebration of Zelda Fitzgerald, Sylvia Townsend Warner, and Rose Macaulay

Three modernist women Thursday 21 March 2019, 6.30–8pm
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Performance: Mai-Thu Perret

Wednesday 20 March 2019, 7–8pm
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Courtesy Eleanor Duffin

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits

Eleanor Duffin Saturday 9 March 2019, 2–3pm
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A portrait of the author Alia Trabucco Zerrán next to her book, The Remainder.

Novel Writers: Alia Trabucco Zerán

The Remainder Thursday 7 March 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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A portrait of the author Yara Rodrigues Fowler next to her book, Stubborn Archivist.

Novel Writers: Yara Rodrigues Fowler

Stubborn Archivist Thursday 28 February 2019, 6.30–7.30pm
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A paint palette is being filled by a young child whose hand is in the foreground and in focus, but whose body is out of focus in the background. They have painted a plate with a smiley face.

Baby Art Hour

Friday 22 February 2019, 10–11am
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A cabinet is made from OSB and stretched canvas, a light comes from it shining through the canvas.

Behind the Scenes Studio Visits

Graduate Fellows Saturday 16 February 2019, 2–3pm
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Exhibition Tour: Christopher Kulendran Thomas

Led by Lucia Fortune-Ely Saturday 9 February 2019, 2–3pm
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I am Making Art

I am Making Art

Inklab Saturday 2 February 2019, 2–5pm
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Baby Art Hour

Baby Art Hour

For babies and toddlers up to 5 years old Friday 25 January 2019, 10–11am
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Artists’ Brunch: Christopher Kulendran Thomas and Mai-Thu Perret

Saturday 19 January 2019, 11am–12.30pm
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Guy Gunaratne, photograph by Cade Moulla

Novel Writers: Guy Gunaratne

In Our Mad and Furious City Thursday 6 December 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Preti Taneja next to their book We That Are Young.

Novel Writers: Preti Taneja

We That Are Young Thursday 15 November 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Sharelene Teo next to their book Ponti.

Novel Writers: Sharlene Teo

Ponti Thursday 25 October 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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Novel Writers Fiona Mozley

Novel Writers: Fiona Mozley

Elmet Thursday 20 September 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Jennifer Nansubuga next to her book Kintu.

Novel Writers: Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi

Kintu Thursday 12 July 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Sophie Mackintosh next to their book The Water Cure.

Novel Writers: Sophie Mackintosh

The Water Cure Thursday 28 June 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Azareen Van Der Vliet Oloomi next to their book Call Me Zebra.

Novel Writers: Azareen Van der Vliet Oloomi

Call Me Zebra Thursday 10 May 2018, 6–7pm
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The author Jessie Greengrass next to their book Sight.

Novel Writers: Jessie Greengrass

Sight Thursday 19 April 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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Greta Schiller’s documentary film Paris was a Woman (1996) Film still

Bristol Women’s Literature Festival Launch

Friday 16 March 2018, 6.30–8.30pm
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Art and Its Materials

Johnny Golding Thursday 15 March 2018, 6–8pm
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A photograph of the author Zoe Gilbert next to their book Folk.

Novel Writers: Zoe Gilbert

Folk Thursday 22 February 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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Sally OReilly

Sally O’Reilly

Writer's Talk Tuesday 30 January 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Annelise Mackintosh next to their book So Happy It Hurts.

Novel Writers: Anneliese Mackintosh

So happy it hurts Thursday 18 January 2018, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Megan Hunter next to their book The End We Start From.

Novel Writers: Megan Hunter

The End We Start From Thursday 23 November 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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In Conversation: Han Kang and Max Porter

The White Book Tuesday 14 November 2017, 6.30pm
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Artist Talk: Aikaterini Gegisian

Thursday 26 October 2017, 6.30–8pm
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The author Rowan Hisayo Buchanan next to their book Harmless Like You.

Novel Writers: Rowan Hisayo Buchanan

Harmless Like You Thursday 27 July 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author JJ Bola next to their book No Place To Call Home.

Novel Writers: JJ Bola

No Place to Call Home Thursday 29 June 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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Novel Writers: Gillian Best

The Last Wave Thursday 20 April 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author David Keenan next to their book This is Memoral Device.

Novel Writers: David Keenan

This is Memorial Device Thursday 30 March 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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Launch of UWE Africa Week

A Celebration of African Culture Thursday 23 March 2017, 6–9pm
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A photograph of the author Wyl Menmuir next to their book The Many.

Novel Writers: Wyl Menmuir

The Many Thursday 26 January 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Yaa Gyasi next to their book Homegoing.

Novel Writers: Yaa Gyasi

Homegoing Wednesday 25 January 2017, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Adam Biles next to their book Feeding Time.

Novel Writers: Adam Biles

Feeding Time Thursday 24 November 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Garth Greenwell next to their book What Belongs To You.

Novel Writers: Garth Greenwell

What Belongs to You Sunday 16 October 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Nadim Safdar next to their book Akram's War.

Novel Writers: Nadim Safdar

Akram's War Thursday 29 September 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Claire Fuller next to their book Our Endless Numbered Days.

Novel Writers: Claire Fuller

Our Endless Numbered Days Thursday 28 July 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Kit De Waal next to their book My Name is Leon.

Novel Writers: Kit de Waal

My Name is Leon Thursday 30 June 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Andrew Michael Hurley next to their book The Loney.

Novel Writers: Andrew Michael Hurley

The Loney Thursday 26 May 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Dan Fox next to their book Pretentiousness Why it Matters.

Writers Talk: Dan Fox

Pretentiousness: Why it Matters Thursday 11 February 2016, 6.30–8pm
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The author Brian Catling, dressed as a cyclops, next to their book The Vorrh.

Novel Writers: Brian Catling

The Vorrh Thursday 28 January 2016, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Claire-Louise Bennett next to their book Pond.

Novel Writers: Claire-Louise Bennett

Pond Thursday 19 November 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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Ami Clarke, Low Animal Spirits installation at Banner Repeater

Artist’s Talk: Ami Clarke

Thursday 12 November 2015, 6–8pm
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A photograph of the author Jesse Armstrong next to their book Love, Sex & Other Foreign Policy Goals.

Novel Writers: Jesse Armstrong

Love, Sex and Other Foreign Policy Goals Monday 19 October 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Sara Leipciger next to their book The Mountain Can Wait.

Novel Writers: Sarah Leipciger

The Mountain Can Wait Thursday 23 July 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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Marinella Senatore, The School of Narrative Dance: Little Chaos #5 (2013)

Artist’s Talk: Marinella Senatore

Tuesday 14 July 2015, 6–8pm
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A photograph of the author Jonathan Gibbs next to their book Randall.

Novel Writers: Jonathan Gibbs

Randall Thursday 18 June 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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The author Kirsty Logan next to their book The Gracekeepers.

Novel Writers: Kirsty Logan

The Gracekeepers Thursday 21 May 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Amy Mason next to her book The Other Ida.

Novel Writers: Amy Mason

The Other Ida Thursday 26 February 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Sarah Perry next to their book After Me Comes The Flood.

Novel Writers: Sarah Perry

After Me Comes The Flood Thursday 29 January 2015, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Gareth E. Rees next to his book Marshland.

Novel Writers: Gareth E. Rees

Marshland Thursday 27 November 2014, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Simon Wroe next to his book Chop Chop.

Novel Writers: Simon Wroe

Chop Chop Thursday 23 October 2014, 6.30–7.30pm
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A photograph of the author Nathan Filer next to his book The Shock of the Fall.

Novel Writers: Nathan Filer

Shock of the Fall Thursday 19 June 2014, 6.30–7.30pm
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One Night Stand readings at Spike Island, Bristol (2012)

Readings: One Night Stand

Thursday 8 November 2012, 7–8.30pm
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