The Government Art Collection’s X-UK project initially ran as a successful pilot scheme in 2020-21 when more than 90 pieces by 45 contemporary visual artists were acquired for the collection. Over a period of five years the Government Art Collection is committed to working with CVAN, SCAN (Scottish Contemporary Art Network), VAGW (Visual Arts Group Wales) and a network in Northern Ireland.
The pilot revealed the impact that an acquisition by the Government Art Collection can have on an artist’s career by helping to bring their art to new audiences and raising their profiles. Glasgow-based artist Alberta Whittle went on to represent Scotland at the 59th Biennale di Venezia in 2022 and currently has pieces on display in the National Galleries of Scotland following the pilot scheme’s acquisition of her work. The acquisition of work by Manish Harijan led to his being granted a global talent visa by the British Council, and Ghanian-born artist Harold Offeh saw his art join a national collection for the first time in his career.
“Continuing the national partnership with the Government Art Collection is a fantastic opportunity for CVAN to support artists in difficult financial times. CVAN hopes such partnerships will pave the way for ways of working that strengthen the development and capacity of the visual arts sector”.
Paula Orrell, National Director, CVAN
“Coming from the foothills of the Himalayas in Nepal, this is a valuable opportunity that has opened doors for me into the art world. Connecting with important art networks like CVAN Yorkshire and Humber, who nominated me to the Government Art Collection, has been inspiring, and following the acquisition of my work by the Collection, the British Council granted me a Global Talent visa”.
Manish Harijan
“As a Cambridge-based artist having my work selected for the Government Art Collection was a huge boost. The recognition and validation of my practice has been extremely encouraging, and I’m excited to be part of a national collection for the first time”.
Harold Offeh
