Featured Events in Bristol in March 2024 (February Updated)

Katie Paterson in collaboration with Zeller & Moye has gathered 10,000 tree species spanning time and space for Hollow. A new public artwork for Bristol, commissioned by the University of Bristol and produced by Situations. From 9 May 2016 step inside a structure that is made of thousands of unique samples of tree species, sourced from every country across the world, from fossilized trees from the earliest forests that emerged over 390 million years ago to the most recent emergent species. Within Hollow you will discover the story of the planet. Renowned for her exploration of the cosmos and geological time, artist Katie Paterson has amassed a collection of 10,000 tree species to form a new artwork for Bristol. The samples of wood span time and space and have been sourced from across the globe. From the oldest tree in the world to some of the youngest and near-extinct species, the tree samples contain within them stories of the planet’s history and evolution through time. Hollow opens to mark the opening of the University of Bristol’s new Life Sciences building. As part of the unveiling of Hollow, join the artist and architects in conversation with Dr Jon Bridle from the University of Bristol's Life Sciences department. Monday 9 May, 6.15pm see www.situations.org.uk for booking details.

Five artists from PROPS display their pictures following weeks of exploration in the Museum. The artists have taken inspiration from the stories and colour in our stained glass windows, as well as the documentary drawings by Bristol artist Denis Reed. Accompanied by compelling portraits created by artist , when working in care, looking after people with learning disabilities.

The RPS International Photography Exhibition (IPE) is the world’s longest-running photography exhibition. Now in its 165th edition, renowned for showcasing a diverse range of contemporary photography from around the world. The International Photography Exhibition 165 explores themes such as environmental issues, identity, community, dementia or grief in their work, showing how contemporary photographers are engaging with and capturing aspects of the world that are not only visually compelling but also socially and culturally significant. Each edition of the International Photography Exhibition invites a guest selection panel of leading voices in photography, bringing an exciting mix of expertise in photography as artists, curators,editors, and commentators. This year, for the IPE 165, the selection panel consisted of Àsìkò, a Nigerian visual-artist currently exhibiting at the Gagosian Gallery in London; Louise Fedotov-Clements, Director of Photoworks and CoFounder of FORMAT Festival; Siqi Li, a Chinese visual-artist based in London and previous winner of the IPE 164 Under 30’s award; Raquel Villar-Pérez, Curator at the Impressions Gallery and Dr Michael Pritchard, photographic historian, researcher, writer, and lecturer.

A site-specific commission by Olu Ogunnaike that combines handmade OSB, charcoal screen prints and silt from the river Avon with charred objects recovered from the recent fire at Underfall Yard, a historic boatyard near Spike Island. OLU OGUNNAIKE Olu Ogunnaike is an artist based in London. Recent solo exhibitions include: An enclosed garden, gb agency, Paris (2022); I’d rather stand, Museum Folkwang, Essen (2021); Crumbs, CAPC musée d’art contemporain de Bordeaux (2021); The Same Way You Came In?, Royal Academy of Arts, London (2021); London Plain, Cell Project Space, London (2020). Recent group exhibitions include: Systemic Love, CAPC musée d’art contemporain de Bordeaux (2023); To “the fire next time”, Villa Arson, Nice (2023); Testament, Goldsmiths CCA, London (2022); Domestic Drama, HALLE FÜR KUNST Steiermark, Graz (2021); Reconfigured, Timothy Taylor, New York (2021).

A moving image commission by Dan Guthrie exploring the potential for the ‘radical un-conservation’ of the Blackboy Clock; an item of contested heritage in Guthrie’s hometown of Stroud.

The exhibition fills three rooms at the club, and is open Monday – Sunday, 7am – 9pm weekdays and 8am – 4pm weekends. If you are interested in coming, you’re welcome to email sophie.yardley@thesquareclub.com to register your visit in advance.

WANDERLUST // RICHARD HIGGS, a captivating solo exhibition showcasing travel sketchbooks and finalized drawings from family trips across Europe, will be held at D UNIT gallery in Ashton Gate, Bristol from March 1st to March 10th, 2024. This remarkable collection offers a unique glimpse into Richard Higgs' personal moments of relaxation away from his demanding career. However, these journeys have also greatly influenced his professional life, serving as the visual inspiration for the groundbreaking travel series Rough Guides, produced by Janet Street-Porter for BBC2. The exhibition not only reflects upon the vibrant and bustling life experienced during these travels but also contemplates the artistic interpretation of delectable dishes presented on terracotta platters. Each artwork is a testament to Richard's internal storyboard, a reflection of his tireless dedication and creative process, which extends far beyond the showcased pages. Despite leaving school at a young age, Richard's passion for design led him to study graphic design at Ravensbourne College of Art, where he excelled and spent five years working in London as a designer. He later pursued fine art (painting) at Norwich School of Art, during which time he began freelancing for BBC East as a scenic and graphic designer. Over the years, Richard has made significant contributions to the world of television design, earning accolades such as an international Emmy for the BBC/DK natural history series Eyewitness and two Panda Awards for the CBBC series Small Talk Diaries. His renowned work includes designing logos and title sequences for Nick Park's acclaimed films, such as Wrong Trousers, A Close Shave, and Cracking Contraptions. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Richard Higgs' extraordinary journey through his intricate and captivating artwork. Limited edition prints will also be available for purchase. The private view of the exhibition will take place on March 1st from 6pm to 8pm, and RSVP to D-UNIT is required to attend. For any enquiries, please contact the gallery at dunit.space@gmail.com. We look forward to welcoming you to WANDERLUST // RICHARD HIGGS at D UNIT gallery, located on Durnford Street in Ashton Gate, Bristol. Admission is free.

Join Team Apex and magician Stephen Simmons for an extraordinary evening of enchantment and illusion at the A Magical Night with Stephen Simmons: An Evening of Illusion & Table Magic event. This exclusive close-up table magic event, hosted at John Wesley's New Room in Broadmead, Bristol, UK, is dedicated to supporting the charity's mission. Stephen Simmons, the renowned magician, will showcase his exceptional skill in magic and masterful hosting throughout the night. The event aims to maintain and preserve the legacy of John Wesley's New Room, Bristol's oldest Methodist building and a significant piece of the city's heritage. Upon arrival at the event, guests will be welcomed with a drink of their choice, alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Throughout the evening, a diverse selection of alcoholic beverages, including beers, wines, and ciders, as well as refreshing non-alcoholic options, will be available for purchase. Guests will have the opportunity to experience the skillful artistry of close-up table magic, creating unforgettable moments throughout the night. The event is designed to be a family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring that it is the perfect night out for all ages. In the spirit of giving, the event aims to raise funds for John Wesley's New Room charity. By participating in the fundraising efforts, attendees will contribute to the preservation of this historic chapel from the 18th century. The chapel's mission is to inform, educate, and inspire visitors through stories of community and social justice. Don't miss out on this magical evening and the chance to support John Wesley's New Room. Secure your tickets now for A Magical Night with Stephen Simmons: An Evening of Illusion & Table Magic on March 1, 2024, at John Wesley's New Room in Broadmead, Bristol, UK. Tickets are available for £16.96.

Discover the opportunity to engage with the prestigious Royal College of Art in Bristol on March 2, 2024. Delve into the world of artistic innovation by attending a specialized event at Design West in Bristol, located at 16 Narrow Quay, BS1 4QA. The event will commence at 10.30am and feature discussions led by Senior Tutor Joseph Pochodzaj and Assistant Dean Tom Sowden from the Royal College of Art in London. Gain insights into crafting a captivating art and design portfolio, and explore the possibilities of postgraduate study at the School of Communication. This event is tailored for prospective RCA students, current applicants, offer-holders, as well as parents and family members. Admission is free, but seats are limited, so advance registration is recommended to secure your spot. For those considering an RCA journey, the option for a personalized portfolio review with Senior Tutor Joseph Pochodzaj is available by emailing recruitment@rca.ac.uk. Immerse yourself in a world of artistic exploration and academic excellence with the Royal College of Art, ranked as the top art and design university globally for nine consecutive years.

Experience the electrifying and deeply connected world of ECSTATIC contact-connection DANCE at the upcoming event in Redland. Hosted by Pixi Pete and Asher Levin, this day-long affair combines the practices of Ecstatic Dance and Contact Improvisation to bring you a unique and thrilling experience on the dance floor. The event kicks off with a Contact Improv workshop in the afternoon, where participants of all skill levels can explore embodied relational skills and the physics of Contact Improv. Develop your connection with self and others as you delve into focused movement scores and gain confidence in your awareness of boundaries. From there, the evening transitions into an Ecstatic Dance session with Pixi Pete, allowing you to freely express yourself and deepen your movement practice. Whether you choose to join for the whole day or just attend the workshop or dance session, you are in for a treat. As part of the experience, a delicious energizing meal will be provided, featuring a thick vegetable soup, chunky sourdough bread, a crunchy salad, and delectable cake options for dessert. Vegan and gluten-free options will be available. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 2nd, 2024, and head to The Elmgrove Centre Community Hall in Redland, Bristol for a day of electrifying connections and conscious dancing. Early Bird Tickets are available until January 28th, 2024, so secure your spot now and save 25%. Don't miss out on this opportunity to groove and connect in a whole new way.