IC Visual Lab is a non-profit visual arts organisation based in Bristol (UK), working between visual culture and socially engaged practice. We are dedicated to exploring the role of images in today’s world, particularly how photography is used to construct narratives that shape society. Our projects often involve activating archives in order to challenge dominant narratives.

Our activity is divided into the following strands:

Long-term collaborative projects, educational workshops and public events.
A design-studio collaborating with artists and organisations to create publications, exhibitions & other outcomes.
Leading Bristol Photo Festival, a biennial of contemporary photography staged across the city.
In October 2024, we will open a new project space in Bristol. It will be equal parts bookshop, gallery and teaching space. Details will be announced Summer 2024.

As an organisation, we have been privileged to collaborate with a wide range of artists and organisations, including:

Artists: Sebastian Bruno, Julián Barón, Federico Clavarino, Carolyn Drake, Chris Hoare, Rob Hornstra, Katrin Koenning, Amak Mahmoodian, Zanele Muholi, Jacqueline Hoang Nguyen, Sarker Protick, Lua Ribeira, Alec Soth, Clementine Schneidermann, Francesca Seravalle, Rohan Thapa, Nguyen Trinh Thi & many others.

Organisations: Bristol Museums and Archives, Arnolfini Gallery, Format Festival Derby, Getxophoto International Festival, Photo Kathmandu, Nepal Point, Matca Vietnam, Liazhou Photo Festival, Arab Image Foundation & many others.

We are grateful to receive support from a wide range of trusts, foundations and public bodies, including: Arts Council England, British Council, Historic England, Heritage Lottery Fund & many others.

Founder director: Alejandro Acin
Co-Director: Ben GJ Thomas
Design & Production: Safia Belhaj

If you are interested in discussing an idea with us please contact us at info@icvl.co.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

IC Visual Lab’s current studio space is located at: Docklands Community Centre, 29 Brigstocke Road, St. Paul’s, Bristol, BS2 8UA

IC Visual Lab is a “Certified Social Enterprise”.

IC Visual Lab

IC Visual Lab / info