Spike Island

Spike Island is an experimental space where art is made and enjoyed — a vibrant social hub and one of the UK’s leading centres for contemporary art and culture. Housed in an 80,000 sq ft former tea packing factory in Bristol’s harbourside, we produce and present an internationally acclaimed programme of museum-scale exhibitions, new commissions, events and engagement activities. We are home to over 70 artists’ studios, a dynamic community of creative businesses, 250 UWE Fine Art and Curating students, Visual Arts South West, Emmeline Café, and Spike Island Exhibition Services.

What challenge or need were you trying to address when you came to us for support?

At a time when we need to generate 80% of our own income each year, amidst an increasingly competitive funding landscape, Left Handed Giant’s partnership during Open Studios meant great deal.

The funds raised through Left Handed Giant’s generous donation of beer and management of a bar over the 3 day event, directly contributes to Spike Island’s founding mission: ensuring that Bristol remains a place where artists can live, work and thrive.

What were you able to do because of that support?

Open Studios remains at the heart of our 50th anniversary celebrations. It was wonderful to see the entire Spike Island community come together, including Left Handed Giant — and incredible to welcome 9,000 visitors through our doors.

With Left Handed Giant’s involvement and support, we were able to create an attractive offer for visitors. Their team set up and ran the bar over the late-night party and across the whole weekend.

Approximately how much did you raise, and what will those funds go towards?

Left Handed Giant raised an incredible £4,113.55 through bar sales, which was shared between the charity Spike Island and our artist community.

Can you describe the difference this made to your organisation or the people you support?

Left Handed Giant’s partnership through Spike Island’s Open Studios makes a huge difference to our organisation and community. Their support directly contributes to sustaining affordable studios and facilities, inspiring and supporting the next generation of artists, and keeping our exhibitions free and accessible for all.

“We were thrilled to continue our partnership with Left Handed Giant for Spike Island Open Studios 2026. Their team’s generosity, enthusiasm and commitment to our organisation and studio community made this collaboration feel truly collaborative, connected and, most importantly, fun.

Together, we developed a brand-new beer to mark Spike Island’s 50th anniversary, commissioned three studio artists to design a bespoke label, and welcomed visitors to a bar run by Left Handed Giant throughout the Open Studios weekend (9,000 visitors). Their support and care for our artist community has been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership. We look forward to working together again in the years to come.”

– Lucy MacDonald, Development Manager, Spike Island, Bristol