University of Bristol Charting Change Commission

*Consultancy is working with a group of Bristol-based artists who have been selected to lead a new participatory public art project for the University of Bristol’s Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus (TQEC).

The project is one of three major public art commissions that will be delivered by *Consultancy as the University of Bristol work towards the opening of TQEC in 2026. The commissions aim to spark curiosity and imagination and help create a place where people will feel welcomed.

Titled 'Charting Change', the participatory project is a two-year commission which will explore the industrial histories of the site of the new campus alongside its technological futures. Focusing on engagement and dialogue, the project will work with local people and civic partners to co-develop a series of artworks and events over the two years, which in turn will inform the design of a permanent textile artwork in the main building at the new campus.

Ellie Shipman, a visual and participatory artist, has been appointed as the lead artist for the Charting Change commission. Ellie is particularly interested in urban change, sustainability and women's stories explored through textiles, sculpture and social practice. She has carefully selected a team of fellow artists to collaborate with, including Bristol-based artist/inventor Jack Stiling, and Dhaqan Collective – a Somali feminist art collective led by Ayan Cilmi and Fozia Ismail.

Ellie hopes to add further voices to the conversation by inviting other contributors to take part throughout the programme.