10.07.2006
From Belfast to Billericay, from St Austell to Stirling, artists from across the UK took up the challenge of the first national open art exhibition for artists over 50. '50 over 50: the Celebrating Age Open Art Prize' was launched in February in association with the University of Brighton and Brighton and Hove Arts Commission, to celebrate the best contemporary visual art by older British artists.
Over 1,800 entries were received, representing art forms including painting, sculpture, print-making, time based media, installation art and digital art. After much deliberation, judges selected 50 exceptional art works, made since January 2004, which will be on display at the university's gallery from 22 July to 31 August 2006.
One overall winner will be presented with a cheque for £5,000 by Sir Christopher Frayling, Chairman of Arts Council England on Saturday 22 July at the opening party.
The judges are: Caroline Collier, Head of National Initiatives at the Tate; Raimi Gbadamosi, internationally acclaimed artist and curator; Roger Malbert, Senior Curator at the Hayward Gallery; Norbert Lynton, acclaimed academic and author; and Cyril Mount, a practicing artist for over 50 years, whose paintings of political and social commentary are exhibited internationally.
50 over 50 has pioneered electronic submission of entries via www.50over50.org.uk and CD, proving by the sheer number of entries received, that older people are no strangers to change and new technology.
50 over 50 will be a professionally curated, stunning exhibition of new and recent works by some of the most talented and experienced artists in the UK. This landmark show will emphasise excellence and innovation in the practice of older artists as it reveals and celebrates the contribution older people make to contemporary culture.
'50 over 50: the Celebrating Age Open Art Prize' in association with the University of Brighton and Brighton and Hove Arts Commission, will be on show at the University of Brighton Gallery, Grand Parade, Brighton BN2 0JY from 2.30pm on 22 July to 31 August 2006.
The gallery is open to the public: Mondays - Saturdays 10am - 5pm (closed Bank Holiday Monday) and closed Sundays.
Admission is free. The gallery has full access for wheelchair users.
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton, 01273 643022
