Humber Street Gallery has announced the appointment of Dave McLeavy as its new Chief Executive Officer and Artistic Director, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the gallery and the charity that operates it, Absolutely Cultured.
Dave joins the organisation on Monday 2nd February 2026, returning to Humber Street Gallery with a deep understanding of its context, ambition and place in the city. He previously worked with Absolutely Cultured as Curator, leading the creative programme at the gallery between 2021 and 2022, and has remained closely connected to its work as an audience member and supporter in the years since.
A curator, creative leader and director, Dave brings extensive experience from across contemporary visual arts, the charity sector and the wider cultural industries. His career includes senior roles at Bloc Projects in Sheffield, freelance curatorial and consultancy work nationally and internationally, and leadership positions focused on growth, partnerships and organisational development. He is also the Founder and Editor of YAC | Young Artists in Conversation and currently 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.”
Qaisar Mahmood, Chair of Absolutely Cultured, said: “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 it continues to develop its role as a welcoming, curious and relevant contemporary visual arts space, rooted in Hull and open to the world.