Previously Senior Curator, Te Tuhi

Bruce completed a Graduate Diploma in Museum and Heritage Studies in 2004. Bruce says: "The Museum and Heritage programme has opened many opportunities for me. What makes the programme effective is its excellent blend of theoretical study and practical training. So not only do you become equipped with a sound academic awareness but you also acquire hands on skills. I also found the staff inspirational, dedicated to students and willing to share a wealth of experience and knowledge. I came out of it with an extensive knowledge and understanding of the functions and history of museums and art galleries. It is a must for anyone desiring a career in the Museum / Gallery sector."

Bruce E. Phillips was the Senior Curator at Te Tuhi since 2011. Throughout his curatorial practice, Phillips explored how a critical awareness of performativity and contextualisation can influence the function of art institutions for the benefit of artists. He has curated over 40 projects and exhibitions featuring artists such as Tania Bruguera, Ruth Ewan, Newell Harry, Amanda Heng, Rangituhia Hollis, Tehching Hsieh, Toril Johannessen, Maddie Leach, William Pope.L, Santiago Sierra, Luke Willis Thompson, Kalisolaite ‘Uhila and The Otolith Group among many others. Selected group exhibitions include: Close Encounters (2008– 2010) at the Hyde Park Art Centre in Chicago; and What do you mean we? (2012), Between Memory and Trace (2012), and Unstuck in Time (2014) at Te Tuhi. For his MA in Museum and Heritage Studies, Phillips explored how a critical awareness of performativity and contextualisation can influence the function of art institutions for the benefit of artists.

A free digital publication documenting the exhibition What do you mean, we? has been released by Te Tuhi.