ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Zoé Whitley Named Director of Chisenhale Gallery, Succeeds Polly Staple

institutional · 2026-04-20

In late March 2020, Zoé Whitley will take the helm as director of Chisenhale Gallery, transitioning from her position as senior curator at the Hayward Gallery, where she served for ten months. Whitley's extensive experience includes over six years at Tate Britain and Tate Modern, where she led curatorial teams. Prior to her tenure at Tate, she spent a decade at the Victoria & Albert Museum, organizing exhibitions and site-specific projects. In 2019, she was chosen by the British Council to curate the British Pavilion for the 58th Venice Biennale. Whitley replaces Polly Staple, who is set to direct Tate's collection of British art. Alice Rawsthorn, Chair of Chisenhale Gallery's Board of Trustees, praised Whitley's achievements in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity.

Key facts

  • Zoé Whitley appointed director of Chisenhale Gallery
  • Starts late March 2020
  • Succeeds Polly Staple
  • Polly Staple becomes director of Tate's British art collection
  • Alice Rawsthorn is Chair of Chisenhale Gallery's Board of Trustees
  • Whitley leaves senior curator role at Hayward Gallery after ten months
  • Previously at Tate Britain and Tate Modern for over six years
  • Curated British Pavilion at 58th Venice Biennale in 2019

Entities

Artists

  • Zoé Whitley
  • Polly Staple
  • Alice Rawsthorn

Institutions

  • Chisenhale Gallery
  • Hayward Gallery
  • Tate Britain
  • Tate Modern
  • Victoria & Albert Museum
  • British Council
  • Venice Biennale

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Venice
  • Italy

Sources