Meet the Judges and Art Prize Winners: Insights and Inspirations from the Experts – How to get Noticed!

Exclusive to VAA Members and VAO Prize Applicants

Join us for a dynamic Q&A session designed to empower Art Prize Applicants with the insider knowledge and inspiration needed to excel in your creative journey.

This session, led by VAA Directors Shirley-Ann O’Neil and Laura O’Hare, will feature VAO25 Award judges and Prize Winners sharing their personal experiences, creative strategies, and the secrets behind building lasting artistic credibility.

To register for the event, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/vao25-art-prize-event-tickets-1270519902229?aff=oddtdtcreator

Panelists

Addi Aegisdottir (VAO25 Judge) is the Sales Director at Mall Galleries, home to the Federation of British Artists, and a key advocate for empowering artists through exhibitions, prizes, and learning opportunities. With expertise in the culture and heritage sector, sales development, and e-commerce, Addi has launched the Mall Galleries Art Consultancy, connecting private and corporate clients with emerging and established artists. Addi also has extensive experience in the primary and secondary art market, having worked with leading galleries and collectors internationally.

Olivia Mason (VAO25 Judge) is the Director of the Artists Futures Fund, leading its mission to support emerging artists facing socio-economic and health barriers. With a background in development roles at TATE and the Holburne Museum, she is passionate about expanding access to the arts and fostering artist development through funding and strategic partnerships.

Ben Summers – VAO23 Painting Category Winner
Ben Summers is a British artist working across painting, mixed media, installation, and outdoor spaces. His work explores the evolving relationship between humans and their environments, blending fantastical imagery with real-world symbolism to create cinematic effects. A Slade School of Art graduate, Ben has exhibited at Mall Galleries, The Other Art Fair, and Christie’s.

Further Speakers to be announced soon!

What You to Expect:

• In-Depth Expert Insights: Hear from high-profile judges and Prize Winners as they discuss their journeys, how they discovered their unique artistic voices, and the strategies they used to build their reputations. Learn more about VAO25 judges on the Judges Page.
• Practical Advice: Gain valuable tips on crafting compelling artist statements, balancing creativity with professionalism, tailoring applications to meet specific criteria, and presenting your portfolio effectively.
• Mindset and Motivation: Explore essential topics such as overcoming imposter syndrome and cultivating a positive creative mindset to boost your confidence and inspire your practice.
• Interactive Q&A: Participate in an engaging discussion where you can ask questions and receive personalized insights to enhance your art prize application process.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this event offers the “golden nuggets” of knowledge to help you build a standout application and take your creative practice to the next level.

For more information about VAO25 Prize, please visit the Visual Arts Open website.

Join us and unlock the expert insights that will propel your artistic journey forward!