We are delighted to announce Jess Starns as our new Future Curator, as part of the DASH (Disability Arts in Shropshire) Future Curators Programme.

Jess’ creative process is participatory, collaborative, and follows inclusive practice with a focus on disability, neurodiversity or history. Their practice is multidisciplinary, with materials and approach informed by the theme of the project, usually through archive research. As someone who is neurodivergent, Jess is always looking for new and innovative ways to create art that is accessible.

Established by DASH, the Future Curators Programme is a national initiative to support emerging Disabled, Deaf and Neurodivergent curators in developing their skills at UK visual arts institutions. The programme aims to challenge and reshape institutional structures that have historically limited access to curatorial roles. Alongside six partner organisations – Disability Arts Online, Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange, MIMA, Wysing Arts Centre, Arts Catalyst and MAC – John Hansard Gallery is proud to appoint an FCP curator this year. By doing so, we hope to contribute to our wider mission of making positive contributions to inclusion within the culture sector.

We look forward to working with Jess on a wide range of projects connected to John Hansard Gallery’s programme from March 2026.

Learn more about Jess here.