British Art Show coming to Bristol

The UK’s largest recurring exhibition of contemporary art will visit Bristol as part of a national tour.

British Art Show 10 will be on display in June 2027 across Bristol Museum, the Arnolfini, Spike Island and the RWA, who will collaborate to develop a programme of activities and events “ensuring the entire city can participate in this landmark exhibition”.

It will be only the third time that Bristol has hosted the British Art Show, which takes place every five years, and whose latest exhibition will be curated by writer and broadcaster Ekow Eshun.

British Art Show 10 will be curated by Ekow Eshun who promises an overview of the most exciting art produced in the UK during the past five years – photo: Zeinab Batchelor

Bristol City Council leader Tony Dyer said: “It is important to be able to offer everyone the chance to experience extraordinary art right here on their doorstep.

“Having four of our great major art institutions work together collaboratively to bring this show to life is a huge moment for our city and a big boost for Bristol’s vibrant arts scene.

“We hope this show helps to inspire the next generation of Bristol creatives.”

British Art Show 10 is a Hayward Gallery Touring exhibition and will launch in Coventry in September 2026 before touring to Swansea, Bristol, Sheffield and Newcastle Gateshead – photo: Ellen Howden

Bristol Museums head of culture Philip Walker promises “an unforgettable experience”, while Spike Island director Nicole Yip said the show “will have an important impact on the cultural energy of this city”.

RWA head of exhibitions Kathryn Johnson said the tenth iteration of the British Art Show “will be the most ambitious tour of the exhibition’s long history”.

Arnolfini CEO Suzanne Rolt added: “The British Art Show’s collaborative approach and curator Ekow Eshun’s creative vision creates space to dream, reimagine and come together, galvanising the potential of the visual arts in Bristol.”

Main photo: Caroline Achaintre

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