Kristian Day Curator Talk: The Playing Fields – Building the world you want & navigating the world we’ve got
Curator Kristian Day shares insights from his ongoing project Playing Fields, which seeks to build meaningful connections between regional art scenes across the UK. In a cultural landscape shaped by centralisation, funding precarity, and uneven visibility, Playing Fields asks how artists, curators, and organisations can reimagine networks of support — and how we could build the art world you want, while navigating the art world we’ve inherited.
Drawing on 25 years of curatorial practice and collaborations with galleries and independent initiatives nationwide, Day will reflect on the challenges of working regionally, the potential of peer-to-peer exchange, and the role of curators as advocates and facilitators. The talk invites audiences to think critically and constructively about the ecosystems we inhabit, and the alternatives we can create together.
Kristian Day is a curator and producer, born and raised in Hull before moving to London where he worked with numerous galleries and organisations. For the past decade he has worked independently with galleries, studios, institutions and project spaces across the UK, developing exhibitions and programmes that support artists and strengthen regional networks. He is currently Director, Curator, and Programmer of Haarlem Gallery and Studios in Wirksworth, Derbyshire.
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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.