17.02.10

Safle Graduate Award 2010 announcement

Safle is delighted to announce that the recipient of
the Safle Graduate Award 2010 is Lauren Elena
Sarreas-Webb who is currently studying at Aberystwyth
University School of Art.

Lauren’s practice is concerned with Concepts of identity and ideas of Self. The panel were excited by her contemporary take on public realm interventions and the possibilities for her work to develop further in this direction. Lauren demonstrated that she clearly has enthusiasm, proactivity and energy for her practice as well as a range of technical skills.

Film still Lauren Sarreas-Webb, video still

This annual £10,000 award is an opportunity for professional development and the progression of creative practice through collaboration and inter-disciplinary exchange within a supportive professional context. It is hoped that the project will provide additional incentive for artists to stay and work in Wales post graduation and enable the development of relationships with other arts professionals and the wider community.

Nine art colleges throughout Wales were each invited to nominate up to three visual art BA students due to graduate in 2010 to initiate, research, develop and implement a temporary site-specific artwork in the public realm within Wales. The successful artist will have comprehensive guidance and support from Safle.

Six students were interviewed – one from Coleg Menai in Bangor, one from Trinity College in Carmarthen, two from University of Wales in Cardiff, one from University of Wales Newport and one from Aberystwyth University School of Art. All the short-listed candidates impressed the panel with their presentations during an enjoyable interview day. It was interesting for the panel to see some of the significant talent emerging from Welsh art colleges.

On receiving the award Lauren said:
"I appreciate being acknowledged as an Artist, having this rare opportunity so early in my career is fantastic. I am delighted to receive the award and am excited about continuing my work in the public realm with guidance from Safle."

Cinzia Mutigli, the Award Manager said:
“We are looking forward to seeing how Lauren’s work progresses and what emerges through her Graduate Award project. We hope that Safle’s support and mentorship will be a valuable contribution to her continuing professional development.”

Lauren will begin the Safle Graduate Award project after graduating in Summer 2010.

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