Each year, the Paul Hamlyn Foundation awards emerging artists to develop their creative ideas freely. In a groundbreaking win for recognition, Linda Bell, who is supported by social care provider, Creative Support, received £75,000 to go exclusively towards her art practice supported by ActionSpace, an arts organisation that supports learning disabled artists to create opportunities and enable them to realise their potential.
Charlotte Hollinshead, Head of Artistic Development and Linda Bell’s Artist Facilitator at ActionSpace, said: “Linda can now gain her own studio, explore new materials and processes and test ideas in performing and activating her work with wider audiences. Linda is part of a wave of learning-disabled artists changing the contemporary art world and this award will give her fresh agency, creative autonomy and provide the platform to truly flex her potential, raise ambition and extend her practice, enabling her to showcase her immense talent and important creative voice.”
Linda’s support provider, Creative Support, celebrated with her earlier this year following her solo exhibition at the Tate Modern in April. She later received praise for her exhibition at the Lovay Gallery, Geneva, making her an internationally recognised artist among major art institutions.
Manager of Linda’s service at Creative Support, Abiodun Smart Omoruyi said: “What an amazing journey Linda has been on so far. She has so much to give to the art world and we are so proud of her. Every day, we see how much hard work she puts into her practice. Her community at ActionSpace, her support staff, friends and family have always shown their appreciation for her talent but it is such a blessing to see her be recognised and have the freedom to explore her ambitions further with the resources she has received.”
Jane Hamlyn, Chair of the Visual Arts judging panel at the Foundation, said: “It is a privilege each year to reaffirm our commitment to the arts through the giving of Awards for Artists. Many artists find their creativity diminished when resources are scarce, but we hope these awards can provide the recipients with the freedom they need to grow and develop.”
