Above image: Loewe FW20 backstage

A new joint partnership launched today by Studio Voltaire and the Loewe Foundation aims to secure the future of seven young designers with a new two-stage programme. Beginning with two years of rent-free studio space, professional development opportunities and a £2000 bursary, the second stage includes a year-long residency for an international artist to be based at Studio Voltaire – all this at a time when emerging creative talent are in need of a helping hand more than ever.

Marking the re-opening of Studio Voltaire in October 2021, one of the UK’s most cherished arts organisations could not have returned any sooner. The Covid-19 pandemic has greatly exacerbated pre-existing issues surrounding affordable studio space for artists in London and this partnership not only aims to alleviate that problem, but cultivate new spaces where artists can connect, collaborate and forge new ties with one another.

The award isn’t just for established names, either. As a celebration of talent, individuality and original thinking, the award will support artists at all stages of their careers, particularly those who have been marginalised or experienced some form of discrimination in their practice. Accordingly, the seven awards will be allocated based on talent and need, with applications made through an open-call system and a group of selected nominators.

The judging panel comprises leading curators and artists, including Sepake Angiama, artistic director of Iniva; Andrew Bonacina, chief curator of The Hepworth Wakefield; artists Anthea Hamilton and Elizabeth Price; and Studio Voltaire’s curator of studios and residencies, Maggie Matić and director, Joe Scotland.

Applications are now open at here.