Laura McCafferty

I was selected to be one of the 18 artists to take part in this brilliant event. For the first time young artists from England were able to take part in the Biennale. Arts Council England East Midlands agreed to be a partner organisation and in partnership with Derby University, Loughborough University, Nottingham Trent University and De Montfort University organised and supported it. While participation in the Biennale may eventually be open across the whole of England, the East Midlands was fortunate in being the first English region to take part in this exciting event.To read more of the artists visit http://www.ukyoungartists.co.uk/artists.html and to view the BBC coverage of our time before and during the Italy event, follow this link http://www.ukyoungartists.co.uk/puglia2008.html

My response on return from the exhibition, ‘The actual positive outcome far outweighed my expectations of the event. I went into the Biennale experience open to everything and tried not to imagine what it would be like; although I had a feeling that putting more than 1000 young artists from 46 countries, together in one place for a week had the potential of being exciting, diverse and inspirational.

I was right. The whole place was buzzing with activity, performance, dance and exhibitions. Although the quality was wide ranging, it gave me the chance to view my own artwork in an international context and gain feedback from my UK and European peers. I sold a piece to a collector in Turin, received press coverage and visited an art dealer for a possible solo exhibition in 2009 and has inspired a new collection of artwork. Friendships have been formed and there is definite possibility for future collaborations as we were able to gain an understanding of each other’s practices.

I found new confidence in myself as an artist and realised the benefit of being around other artists. Therefore on my return I rented a second space in a Nottingham group studio. By spending two days per week there I can develop ideas, draw and work together to create a recognised artists’ studio both locally and nationally.

I hope that we were the first of many UK young artists to take part as I feel that participation will inject new energy and dialogue into our creative community. It was an honour to be chosen to represent the UK and would recommend it to anyone open to opportunity.‘

The work included was Dare to be Different, The Lone Raver, Bingo Women and Poppy in her Living Room. Poppy was bought by a private collector in Turin. On my return I made the piece Young Card Players in memory of the experience.

This is just the beginning, the Arts Council and Partners are aiming to bring a World Biennale to the East Midlands Region in 2012. To watch this space… please visit http://www.ukyoungartists.co.uk/