As a Bristol dwelling art student of one year, I feel that I know my Art Galleries in Bristol. People often ask me to recommend art galleries as there are quite a few in the city so I decided to compile a list of my favourites.
1. Spike Island
Okay yes, I am biased as my studio and degree are based in Spike Island but it has to be one of my top art galleries in Bristol. Spike houses a number of exciting contemporary artist studios alongside UWE fine art students. It also has a working art gallery with a new artist every six months. Contemporary artist Tessa Lynch's L Shaped Room is currently on display until the 30th of September.
I highly recommend this gallery and also they have a yummy little café next door that serves delicious organic food all day. Being easily accessible from the centre of Bristol, there is no excuse not to go and have a look.
2. Banksy Trail
Bristol is famous for its colourful street art thanks to graffiti legend Banksy. I know this is not strictly an art gallery but there are so many Banksy works in Bristol that I had to include them. You can even go on a Banksy tour and spend an afternoon learning about each artwork and also get to see the Bristol sights from a street art perspective.
3. The Island
What used to be 20th-century police cells have been turned into the vibrant creative space that is The Island.
It holds over 100 different artists and creative minds and often has exhibitions, gigs and performances going on. They also have lots of interesting work for sale inside the building from upcoming artists so I recommend checking it out.
4. The Arnolfini
I have spent so much time in this gallery during the previous year from viewing the art gallery to having a coffee outside by the river.
The gallery is situated on the waterfront by the Bristol harbourside which is my most favourite place in Bristol. On the 26th of September, they will be unveiling the new travelling Grayson Perry exhibition 'The Most Popular Art Exhibition Ever!' Check out the private view event on Facebook for more details.
5. UWE Creative Shows
(Shameless UWE student promotion again!) Bristol is full of talented art students studying at UWE and I personally think they put on the best art shows. From wacky fine art performances to beautiful illustration shows, UWE has got you covered. Keep updated on the UWE degree shows for up and coming creative exhibitions and events the students are putting on, I guarantee you will have a great time. Thanks for reading and I hope you learned a bit more about this fabulously creative city!
