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Hull Open Studios Talks – Studio Exchange: Dinosaur Kilby, Sarah Pennington & Dan Russell

What can we learn from different exchange models?

During this round-table panel discussion, our speakers will consider what an artists studio offers, what can happen when artists get together to do something, what role institutions can play in supporting studios and spaces, where exchanges between artists can happen beyond the studio, and the importance of graduate retention and DIY-initiatives to the artistic ecosystem.

Hull Open Studios 2026

This event is part of Hull Open Studios 2026. Hull Open Studios is a celebration of creativity and community, offering artists the chance to open their doors, share their practice and connect directly with audiences. It’s an opportunity to showcase work, meet new people, sell pieces, and be part of a citywide celebration of Hull’s vibrant creative scene. Find out more

1 Dan Russell Headshot (credit Adam Pugh)

Dan Russell

Dan Russell (b. 1985, Birkenhead) is an artist who usually works with other people on collaborative and socially-engaged projects.

He discovered contemporary art practice in his mid-twenties via the gateway drugs of architecture, design and music. He is a studio holder and part-time member of staff at the NewBridge Project in Newcastle Upon Tyne. As Artist Development Programmer there, he helps oversee the Collective Studio (fixed-cohort annual development programme) and Practice Makes Practice (rolling, public-facing programme). His approach to art and artist development favours fun and learning by doing.

Instagram: @daniel_stewart_russell

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Dinosaur Kilby

Dinosaur Kilby is an Artist-Curator based in Birmingham, UK. He currently works at Wolverhampton Art Gallery as a Creative Producer. Between 2021-23 he completed an Artist-Curator Traineeship at Eastside Projects. He set up and ran Prayer Room between 2023-2025. Dinosaur is currently working on free house, an artist studio complex in Digbeth, Birmingham.

Recent projects include ‘Making Space 3.0’ at Wolverhampton Art Gallery, ‘Peasants Revolt Now!’ at Prayer Room, ‘Are the Stones Standing Still’ at Staffordshire St. and ‘If It Thunders on All Fool’s Day’ at Eastside Projects.

Instagram: @dinosaurkilby

Website: dinosaurkilby.com

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Sarah Pennington

Sarah Pennington is an artist and also the Director of Hull Artist Research Initiative (HARI). As an artist, Sarah works in a variety of materials and processes, including textiles & leather, metalsmithing & woodturning, photography & printmaking, plaster & pewter, wax & willow. She often creates mixed media assemblages, and is inspired by social history, place and natural phenomena. HARI is an artist-led not-for-profit initiative supporting artists’ research, experimentation and engagement through residencies, exhibitions and programmes of discussions and events.  HARI is located in a large 1st-floor post-war industrial space at 25 Francis Street in Hull and operates to make dynamic opportunities for artists to conduct and share their research processes and trial different ways of working.

HARI will be opening their doors as part of Hull Open Studios on 2 May 2026.

Instagram: @hari_artsresearch

Website: hullartistresearchinitiative.com

Map: Hull Open Studios 2 May 2026

Accessibility

Is Humber Street Gallery wheelchair accessible?

Yes. You can access every part of the gallery without steps. The entrance is level with the street, and there’s a lift to all floors, including the rooftop.

Do you have accessible toilets?

Yes. We have one all-gender accessible toilet on the ground floor with grab rails and emergency pull cords.

Can I bring my assistance dog?

Absolutely. We welcome guide dogs, hearing dogs and other trained assistance animals throughout the building.

Do you provide large print or accessible exhibition guides?

Yes. We offer large print as standard and Dyslexia-friendly versions of exhibition texts. You can pick them up in the gallery or download them from the exhibition pages of our website.

Is there somewhere quiet I can go if I need a break?

We know the gallery can sometimes feel busy or overwhelming. Ask a member of staff and we’ll help you find a quieter space to take a moment.

Do you offer sensory-friendly experiences?

Some exhibitions include sensory content and we have regular quiet hours. We also have ear defenders available to borrow at the front desk. If you need anything specific, get in touch before your visit. You can find details of our noisy and quiet hours at the top of this page.

Is there Blue Badge parking nearby?

Yes. There are Blue Badge parking bays on Humber Street and surrounding roads, just a short distance from the gallery.

Are your events and workshops accessible?

We aim to make all events as accessible as possible. Access details vary depending on the activity, so check individual listings or contact us with any questions.

What if I have an access need that’s not listed here?

We’re happy to chat and find ways to support your visit. You can call us, email us or drop in for a conversation.

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