Chelsea Studio Award

Eligibility: Final year BA Fine Art students at Chelsea College of Art and Design
Next programme (2010-2011): The next recipient of the award will be annouced shortly.

Introduction

In 2009, Kiki Claxton and Harry Major, two second-year students at Chelsea School of Art, approached numerous organisations to ask for contributions for a prize for graduating artists. Aware of the difficulties graduate artists face, and impressed by Kiki and Harry's proactivity, Acme offered to provide a studio rent-free for six months.

In 2010, the Chelsea Studio Award will be greatly enhanced as a result of a grant from Chelsea Arts Club Trust, who encourage art and design education, and provide help and support for artists and designers. Chelsea Arts Club Trust’s contribution, means the next award holder will also receive a cash bursary and professional mentoring. The role of organising the award will be taken on by second year student Lauren Houlton who will gain invaluable experience of working with professional arts bodies.

2009-2010: Sam Austen

A panel comprising artist Lindsay Seers and Acme's Heather Deedman selected Sam Austen as the inaugural recipient of the award. Sam took up his residency at Acme’s Galleria studios in September 2009. Sam’s previous work includes small-scale painting and projections. Having a large studio has encouraged Sam to experiment in new media and he is using his time to work on a large sculptural piece.