"Trinity is a rare and extraordinary space where creativity meets community. It’s a place that nurtures artists, supports grassroots culture, and brings people together through the power of the arts. I’m passionate about helping to sustain and grow this vital centre so that it continues to inspire and empower future generations on my doorstep in Bristol." - Paula Orrell, Trustee

As a Trustee of Trinity, Paula brings extensive expertise in the visual arts, cultural strategy, and community engagement. She joined the board, inspired by Trinity’s role as a vital creative and social hub, committed to engaging broad and diverse audiences with music and performing arts and, at its heart, inclusion and civic impact.

With a deep understanding of contemporary art—spanning grassroots organisations to major institutions—Paula contributes to shaping Trinity’s strategic vision through leadership and critical governance, ensuring it continues to thrive as a space for creativity, collaboration, and social change.

Paula is the Director of CVAN England (Contemporary Visual Arts Network), where she leads national efforts to advocate for the visual arts, drive sector-wide change, and champion diversity, climate action, and equitable opportunities for artists and art workers. She has held leadership roles directing and shaping arts organisations, including as Artistic Director of the Centre of Contemporary Art Toi Moroki in New Zealand, Curator of Plymouth Arts Centre, and Director of the River Tamar Project, a public art programme across South West England.

She has alsocurated major exhibitions at the Barbican, London and the British Museum. With experience in research and education, she has lectured at the London College of Fashion, designing and delivering an MA in Curating. She has collaborated with world-renowned contemporary artists such as John Akomfrahand Marina Abramović. Paula’s leadership in the arts, policy, and cultural development makes her a strong advocate for Trinity’s mission and future.