In an incredible milestone for artist Linda Bell’s 27-year career, her sculptural works were recently acquired by The Geneva State Collection (FCAC), making her an internationally recognised artist among major art institutions.
Back in April, Linda held her own exhibition at the Tate Modern. Titled “Linda Bell: Loop. Swing. Shake. Remake”, the exhibition ran from 31st March to 7th April. It featured large colourful canvases and hanging sculptures that visitors could activate through touch, movement and reshaping.
Linda’s brother Raymond commented: “I’m very proud of Linda and everything that she does. Seeing the public admiring her work is just amazing. Linda is non-verbal and non-hearing, and so I do believe that she uses her art as a way to watch and engage with other people.”
Linda’s support team have been deeply committed to her development as an artist over the last five years. The manager of the Creative Support service, Abiodun Smart Omoruyi said: “Linda’s artwork is so fascinating and truly beautiful. It is so important that she is taken seriously as an artist. It seems the art world is becoming more accessible and inclusive, which is necessary. I believe Linda will go far.”
Charlotte Hollinshead has worked with Linda since 1999 and is Head of Artist Development at ActionSpace, an organisation supporting learning-disabled artists. Charlotte said: “No one in the world makes artwork like Linda. Her practice has gradually evolved and her art has become much richer and deeper over the years. It’s good to see that her career is really taking off.
“Not only is she making amazing work but she is also a real role model for people. For years, she has been running workshops with children in special education and supporting them to get creative. She is someone to look up to.”
To spotlight Linda’s breakthrough as an artist, her support provider Creative Support produced a short documentary titled ‘Journey to the Tate Modern: Linda’s Story’. It captures her creative process behind the exhibition that led to her international critical acclaim.
Link to the documentary can be found here: https://youtu.be/l5tUP0n8kdI
