Auto Italia’s Edward Gillman: ‘True Privilege’ to Direct Chisenhale Gallery

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Auto Italia director Edward Gillman looks forward to carrying on Chisenhale Gallery‘s ‘founding spirit of experimental making and diverse critical thinking’ as he takes on the role of director at the East London non-profit.

Gillman said he ’[looks] forward to carrying forward [the gallery’s] founding spirit of experimental making and diverse critical thinking’ and deepening its local and global relationships.

Replacing long-time director Zoé Whitley, who stepped down last December, Gillman will depart his current role at nearby artist-run gallery Auto Italia next month, where he spent 11 years, including five as director and two as co-director.

Gillman was selected by a committee comprising gallery trustees, alumni artists, and fellow institution leaders. Board chair May Calil called Gillman’s approach to leadership ‘proactive, thoughtful and clear’.

‘Edward brings a singular vision, understanding of Chisenhale Gallery’s context and innovative approach to the role,’ she said, adding that his ‘inspired programme’ at Auto Italia saw its funding increased during his tenure.

Calil said the gallery looks forward to working with Gillman ‘to maintain its position as the U.K.‘s foremost space for commissioning artists’ and hinted at the need to secure new premises.

Meanwhile, Gillman called the appointment a ‘true privilege’, adding that Chisenhale Gallery has ‘an extraordinary legacy shaped by generations of visionary artists and directors’.

His role will include supporting the gallery’s innovation and overseeing its Social Practice projects and acclaimed Commissions Programme, platforming emerging talent by realising an exhibition with select artists over two years.

This year, the gallery will host exhibitions by artists Claudia Pagès Rabal, Dan Guthrie, and Grant Mooney. —[O]

Main image: Edward Gillman. Photo: Ottilie Landmark.