33 finalists out of 144 entries
Winner Kate Linforth says: “It was fantastic to know that my work was appreciated not just by those who took part in the project but a wider audience felt it deserved recognition. The reward helped towards the introduction to the relief of gallery who now houses some of my works and also link to me to some other people who may be helpful for future projects. I have used the logo in the recent correspondence and feel that it may add a little gravitas when planning to open calls etc – I have recently been accepted to exhibit at the current LifeDeathWhatever exhibition in he National Trust’s Sutton House, Hackney. I will continue to use the logo in correspondence for the next few months as I feel it can only be a positive and message me out amongst others. The art world is very competitive and sometimes the art created is not enough to get an artist noticed. Having such an accolade can only be a positive when you are trying to get your work noticed.”
Winner Julia Groves says: “I am grateful to have won the award as it demonstrated that others are interested in my work and that my practice is appreciated. This is very helpful when I get those times of insecurity. Winning the award has a ripples – not sure where they are going – but it was a significant event for me this year.”
Winner Genetic Moo say: “Winning awards is always important, especially when you are an artist working in ways unfamiliar to many. We use computers, code and graphics to create immersive and interactive video installations which are typically exhibited in shopping centres, libraries and museums. Winning the Kent Creative Audio Visual Award was a confidence boost as it gave us proof there is interest in what we do. Since winning the Award we refer to ourselves as ‘award winning artists’ as opposed to just ’emerging’ artists and we are sure that this has movated people to commission us. It is great to have recognion for what we do, especially from our home county. This award not only encourages us to carry on exploring digital art and its potential, it endorses digital technology as a valid medium.”
Winner Dover Arts Development say: “The award came at a brilliant time, just before a major DAD event in Dover’s Town Hall: INSPIRATION = DOVER. The event opened with speeches from Charlie Elphicke MP, Sarah Dance from Culture Kent and Chris Mellor from the Arts Council. We were able to announce the award to all our guests and we received public congratulations from our VIPs. The award was also well-timed as 2016 is our 10th anniversary year and we are embarking on a new phase for DAD. The recognition through the award has boosted our confidence and the confidence of others in us and supported our ambition for the arts in Dover.”
Judges decided to add Special Mentions for individuals who produce outstanding work and/or have a particular impact on their communities:
