Cultural initiative Art of London has launched ‘Brighter Future’ - interactive art installations from up-and-coming artists chosen by a panel from the world of art, headed up by famed comedian and Royal Academy artist, Harry Hill, whose work will also feature within the programme.
Art of London and NGX invited artists to submit their interpretation of building a better, brighter future in the city. Artists were selected to have their installations publicly come to life in some of London’s most iconic locations, such as Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. This outdoor exhibition will be on display from August 2022.
Artists who won the funding include Zarah Hussain, who combines contemporary digital art with hand-drawn Islamic geometry; Sam Williams, a visual artist and creative producer, who creates immersive environments that encourage people to ‘find their play’; and Fiona Quadri, a multidisciplinary artist with a focus on photography and illustration, who hopes her interactive installation will illustrate London’s uniqueness.
Harry Hill said: “I’m thrilled to support and judge Art of London’s public art project which will brighten up the London city I love. Whenever I’m stuck for inspiration, I go to an art gallery or an exhibition. Good public art can make a huge difference to our mood, how we face the day and how we view the world in general”.
Mark Williams, Director of Art of London, said: “After a successful and inspiring first year for The Art of London Season, we’re thrilled to see this initiative go from strength to strength. The ‘Brighter Future’ commission harnesses the incredible creative energy of art, that we hope will imbue a sense of optimism and a general feelgood factor in the West End and for those who visit. We look forward to unveiling the hard work and creativity of these artists later this year”.
Zarah Hussain, artist and winner of the Art of London Brighter Future R&D grant, said: “I am so pleased to be selected for Art of London’s 'Brighter Future' project and through my art encourage people to look to the future with positivity. It’s an honour to have my artwork chosen to be on display in the West End in one of London’s busiest areas.
Sam Williams, artist and fellow winner of the Art of London Brighter Future R&D grant, said: “I am thrilled that my concept has been selected in this incredible art project, this is a really exciting opportunity to show my work in the West End, a globally recognised location. My artwork draws inspiration from the location's iconic heritage and encourages West End visitors to play together – to problem solve, collaborate and innovate together. I believe building a brighter future together begins with an act of play”.
Fiona Quadri, artist and fellow winner of the Art of London Brighter Future R&D grant, said: “London is a melting pot of different cultures, communities, classes, genders, and ages. We often keep to ourselves and rarely interact with strangers. I argue that if we strip back the anonymity and learn to get to know each other on a more personal level, we can start dismantling prejudices. My installation celebrates diversity, inclusivity and the multitude of identities, bringing us closer to one another through voice recordings and vibrant portraits.
Chris Michaels, Director of Digital, Communications & Technology at The National National Gallery, said: “We’ve loved being able to facilitate such a powerful campaign and give the public access to creative, progressive art in some of the world’s most iconic locations. Art and technology has the power to transform how we see the world around us and we’re excited to see these installations come to life in the West End”.
“Brighter Future” marks the start of Art of London’s Summer Season 2022; a series of major public-realm art commissions, partnerships with the UK's leading cultural institutions, and participatory consumer events. The festival follows other phenomenal art attractions that have taken place in the past year as part of Art of London’s award-winning initiatives, including the Augmented Gallery, several Pop-Up Art Exhibitions, the Piccadilly Art Takeover and Trail and the Take A Moment 2022 photography exhibition with Ray Burmiston.
