Written by Matt Walton

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dave McLeavy as our new Chief Executive Officer and Artistic Director, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Humber Street Gallery.

Dave will join us on Monday 2 February 2026, returning to the gallery with a deep understanding of our context, ambition and place in the city. He previously worked with us as Curator between 2021 and 2022, leading the creative programme during a pivotal period for the gallery. Since then, he has remained closely connected to our work as an audience member and supporter.

A curator, creative leader and director, Dave brings extensive experience across contemporary visual arts, the charity sector and the wider cultural industries. His career includes senior roles at Bloc Projects in Sheffield, as well as freelance curatorial and consultancy work nationally and internationally. He also brings strong leadership experience focused on organisational development, partnerships and sustainable growth. Alongside this, Dave is the Founder and Editor of YAC | Young Artists in Conversation and currently serves as Chair of Trustees for Grimsby-based charity Our Big Picture.

Speaking about his appointment, Dave said:

“I’m really looking forward to returning to Humber Street Gallery. While I haven’t been part of the team for a few years, I’ve stayed closely connected to the programme and have loved experiencing the gallery as an audience member. It feels like the right moment to come back and help shape what comes next.

“I’m excited to work with the team to build on the gallery’s strengths, while being realistic about the challenges facing the sector. My priorities include growing Humber Street Gallery’s presence in the city as a distinctive, welcoming place that brings together art, culture and social space, while continuing to champion artists and creatives locally. Hull has an incredible creative scene, and I’m keen to ensure it receives the national recognition it deserves.”

Our Chair, Qaisar Mahmood, added:

“We’re delighted to welcome Dave back to Humber Street Gallery as our new CEO and Artistic Director. He brings a strong mix of curatorial insight, leadership experience and strategic thinking, alongside a genuine connection to the organisation and the city.

“I know the board and the whole team will give him a very warm welcome, and I’m looking forward to working closely with him as we move into this next chapter together.”

Dave’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Humber Street Gallery as we continue to develop our role as a welcoming, curious and relevant contemporary visual arts space, rooted in Hull and open to the world.