After a competitive interview process, in January 2023 The Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) launched an Artist in Residence programme selecting twelve artists to work with the local community over a three-year period to deliver portraits and community arts projects. Each residency lasting three months, with the artist based locally in a studio at The Community Hub in West Kensington.
As part of the ECDC community outreach, the Artist in Residence programme provides opportunities in and access to the arts for local people and children. The programme focuses on the local histories and hidden stories of Earl’s Court, with each artist using a different medium – from ceramics to painting – to engage the community, uncovering and capturing their memories. Artists host weekly art classes for local people as well as contributing to talks and workshops for the community.
Headshots of the first four artists who took part in the programme.
Venezuelan-born artist Renata Fernandez is the fifth artist in residence. Known for her large format and intimate bi-dimensional work across digital animation, installations and immersive pieces that incorporate drawing, painting, set design, and sculpture.
Exploring many different styles of portraiture, the commissioned artists work from a variety of mediums and from a breadth of backgrounds. The artists’ work will be displayed around the Earls Court site, providing an artistic record of community members who contribute to this remarkable neighbourhood. The programme is part of ECDC’s focus on involving local people in the transformation of the development site, both now and in the long-term.
Over 200 applications were received in response to the open call-out. All applications were judged by an independent panel. In addition to studio space, the selected applicants will also receive a financial grant for their residency.
The independent judging panel included renowned contemporary artist Marc Quinn, a member of the National Portrait Gallery’s learning team, as well as representatives from ECDC, the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.
If you have any questions, please email jade.barltrop@earlscourtdevco.com
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