Nicole Yip Appointed as New Director of Spike Island

Spike Island has officially announced that Nicole Yip will be taking over as the new Director in June 2024. Currently holding the position of Chief Curator of Exhibitions & Live Programmes at Nottingham Contemporary, Yip brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Bristol’s renowned art space.

Nicole Yip: A Profile

Nicole Yip, a Canadian curator and writer based in the UK, has been shaping the art scene since 2019 at Nottingham Contemporary. Her portfolio includes curating exhibitions for a range of artists, from Assemble to Erika Verzutti. Yip’s collaboration with Robert Leckie on a major retrospective of Donald Rodney is eagerly awaited. Her career also includes significant roles at LUX Scotland and various prestigious institutions, proving her extensive experience in the field.

Visions and Expectations

Professor Judith Squires, Chair of Spike Island’s Board of Trustees, said: 

“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Nicole Yip as the new Director of Spike Island. Nicole brings a wealth of experience to this important role as we seek to further strengthen our reputation as one of the country’s most exciting arts organisations. I am excited to welcome Nicole Yip as our new Director to lead the further development of our ambitious and high-quality artistic programme, as well as overseeing the continued provision of accessible workspace to studio holders, Spike Island Associates members, businesses and students. The Board of Trustees look forward to working with Nicole to ensure that Spike Island continues to play a significant role in supporting the South West’s vibrant regional artistic and cultural community.“

Spike Island Studio representatives, said: 

“We welcome Nicole Yip to Spike Island and are excited about the vision and expertise she brings from Nottingham Contemporary, especially a tradition of working collaboratively across the organisation and out into the city. It is brilliant to hear her admiration of Spike Island’s talented artist community; we look forward to working with her to continue its prosperity.“

Nicole Yip said: 

“I am tremendously excited and honoured to join the team at Spike Island. I have long admired Spike Island as an institution that places artists and their needs at the heart of everything it does. This is an ethos that I will hold close as we embark on its next chapter. I look forward to working with the team and board to build on the fantastic achievements of former director Robert Leckie, and getting to know the vibrant community that makes Spike Island so special.”