The ING Discerning Eye Exhibition returns for 2019, offering emerging artists a key platform to take their practice to the next level. The annual show is renowned for its unique curatorial approach, which brings together a panel of six prominent figures from the art world – two artists, two collectors and two critics. These industry leaders select 450 artworks from an open submission, culminating in an expansive exhibition at the Mall Galleries, London.
This year’s selectors are cultural pioneers from across the creative industries, including: Artistic Director of the Young Vic Kwame Kwei-Armah; Oscar, Emmy, Grammy and Tony award-winning lyricist Sir Tim Rice; illustrator Gill Button, whose commissions include Vogue and Gucci; Professor of Fine Art at London College of Fashion Charlotte Hodes; former Discerning Eye Chairman John Penrose and former Associate Culture Editor for The Sunday Times Louis Wise.
The project presents an open and accessible submission process, inviting practitioners to enter up to six works across a variety of media. Painting, drawing, print, sculpture, photography and film are all welcomed, celebrating the rich diversity of contemporary art practice. Commenting on the longstanding partnership between ING and the Discerning Eye arts charity, Malgorzata Kolakowska, UK CEO, ING says “ING aims to make a meaningful impact and to open art and culture to a broader audience.”
Over the last 20 years, ING Discerning Eye has exhibited around 10,000 works from 2,500 practitioners, creating a meaningful impact on individual artists and the wider industry. £250,000 has been awarded across seven prizes including the ING Purchase Prize (£5,000), the Discerning Eye Founder’s Purchase Prize (£2,500) and the Discerning Eye Chairman’s Purchase Prize (£1,000). “The aim is to inspire and support the change makers who are creating a positive impact,” Malgorzata notes. “It’s our belief that progress is always possible and we empower people to realise their ambitions at the highest level – in art and in business.”
Deadline to pre-register online: 27 August, 5pm. Find out more here.
Lead image: Suzanne Moxhay, Entrance VII.
