Holly O’Brien
My curatorial approach is shaped by an interest in storytelling, language and the fluidity of history. I am particularly interested in how fiction can surface marginalised narratives and challenge dominant or linear historical frameworks. My research engages with archives, ephemeral public art and lens-based media as tools for developing a sustainable, socially engaged practice.
My work centres on connecting communities with arts and heritage through creative public programming. I have developed a range of projects including screenings, workshops, audio tours and digital events for diverse audiences. Through this work, I create experiences that are accessible, engaging and thought-provoking, while fostering meaningful partnerships and reaching new audiences through interdisciplinary approaches.
I am currently Programme and Marketing Manager at David Parr House, where I lead a dynamic programme of exhibitions, talks and workshops, alongside marketing, digital strategy and audience development.
Recent work includes exhibitions at David Parr House, independent projects in Glasgow and Leeds, and cross-sector collaborations with artists, galleries and community partners. I am currently undertaking the Associateship of the Museums Association (AMA) to further develop my practice in museum and collections-based work.
Work Experience
2023–Present | Programme & Marketing Manager, David Parr House, Cambridge
2025 | Digital Strategy Consultant, Centre for Computing History, Cambridge
2022–Present | Communications Consultant, Cavendish Arts Science, Cambridge
2021–2022 | Researcher, Raumdeuter Radio
2021–2023 | Freelance Digital Producer, Wysing Arts Centre, Cambridgeshire
2021 | Freelance Curator, Tramway, Glasgow
2021 | Freelance Curator, Hunterian Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow
2017 | Festival Organiser, Femfest ‘17, Leeds
2016–2017 | Project Assistant, East Street Arts, Leeds
Selected Curatorial Projects
2023 | Curator, Projections of Love, Glasgow
2022 | Producer, Sidney (Short Film), Manchester
2021 | Curator, a thing that remembers itself, Glasgow
2021 | Curator, Song Dynasty III, Hunterian Art Gallery, Glasgow
2021 | Curator, GSA Showcase, Tramway TV, Glasgow
2020 | Curator, To A Passer By (Online)
2017 | Curator, Listen UP, Leeds
2017 | Curator, Femfest ‘17, Leeds
Selected Writing and Publications
2021 | a thing that remembers itself
2021 | puddles, piles of trash
2015–2018 | Writer and Editor, Yonica Zine
Talks, Workshops and Residencies
2022 | Workshop Leader, Studio Pavilion, Glasgow
2022 | Resident, House for an Art Lover, Glasgow
2022 | Speaker, PUTSPACE Conference, Brussels
2021 | Resident, Hospitalfield, Arbroath
2021 | Speaker, University of Glasgow
2021 | Speaker, Glasgow School of Art
2018 | Workshop Leader, Girl Gang, Leeds
Education
2020–2021 | MLitt Curatorial Practice, Glasgow School of Art
2014–2017 | BA English Literature, University of Leeds
Training and Memberships
2026 | Undertaking Associateship of Museums Association (AMA)
2026 | Axis Member
2026 | ICOM member
2025 | Museums Association Member
2022 | Committee Member, Strange Field, Glasgow
2022 | Founder, HO.RR Curatorial Collective
2019 | Adobe Premiere Pro Essential Training
2019 | Advanced Social Media Strategy
2019 | Social Marketing (Hootsuite)
