Director Bryony Bond to leave Yorkshire Contemporary in 2025

Bryony has been instrumental in leading us through periods of significant change and challenges whilst also delivering over 56 amazing exhibitions and many exciting family and community events, from Baby Weeks to Light Nights. During her leadership we have supported over 500 artists locally, nationally and internationally.

Bryony Bond said:

I’m extremely proud of what we achieved as The Tetley and I’m incredibly excited for the future of Yorkshire Contemporary as we expand our remit to work with artists across the region and deliver amazing projects in partnership with cultural organisations and communities. I am of course particularly delighted that Yorkshire Contemporary will be co-curating the Turner Prize in 2025 in partnership with Bradford 2025, Bradford District Museums & Galleries and Tate – bringing the best of British contemporary art to Yorkshire and connecting the Prize with artists and communities here.

It is no secret that the last few years have been extremely challenging for us as we left The Tetley building and rebranded the organisation. But today, Yorkshire Contemporary is in a strong position with continued support from Arts Council England, Leeds City Council and long term funding also secured from the National Lottery Community Fund. We have developed strong partnerships and are delivering impactful work directly with communities.

Yorkshire Contemporary is poised to take the next step in its journey, and will I know continue to make a huge difference to artists, audiences, communities, families and children in Yorkshire. After 8 years leading the organisation, I feel that this is a good time to move on to my own next challenge and pass this brilliant opportunity onto the next Director, who will be supported by a fantastic team and wonderful board of trustees. 

I would like to take this moment to sincerely thank the incredible team, artists, trustees, partners and funders who I have had the pleasure to work with over my time with The Tetley/ Yorkshire Contemporary. I look forward to seeing and continuing to support Yorkshire Contemporary as it grows and continues to fulfil a vital role in Yorkshire.

Frank Finlay on behalf of the Board of Trustees said:

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks and our deepest gratitude to Bryony Bond for eight years of outstanding leadership and vision which leave us in a strong position for the future. Her tireless commitment, tenacity of purpose and unflagging dedication and passion have brought transformative experiences to the communities we serve and have left an indelible mark on our organisation and the wider arts landscape. We would like to wish Bryony every success in her exciting new role as we look forward to the next chapter for Yorkshire Contemporary under a new Director. 

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional Director to lead our organisation into a new chapter. To find out more and apply for the role visit our Jobs & Opportunities.