Yorkshire and East of England Artists Set to Shine on Global Stage

The next generation of British artists is set to make its mark globally, with works from talented individuals showcased in embassies and government buildings around the world. This initiative is part of a broader government strategy to highlight contemporary artists from Yorkshire and the Humber, as well as the East of England, through the Art X-UK project.

New Acquisitions Highlighting Diverse Perspectives

This year, the Government Art Collection (GAC) has added ten new pieces to its collection as part of the fourth phase of the five-year Art X-UK initiative, aimed at capturing the creative talent from all corners of the UK. Among the latest acquisitions is a piece by Grace Clifford, who utilises everyday objects and industrial materials to challenge prevailing stereotypes about working-class communities. Her work delves into the influence of family history, local environments, and heritage on individual identities across generations. In recognition of her artistic contributions, she received the Working Class Creatives Database x Yorkshire Sculpture Park Residency in 2023 and the Henry Moore Foundation Artist Award Scheme in 2025.

The collection has also expanded to include works by Issam Kourbaj, an artist originally from Syria who settled in Cambridge in 1990. Kourbaj’s art reflects themes of migration, memory, and displacement, often incorporating fragile and layered materials as well as found objects. These elements serve to narrate the stories of journeys taken, the places left behind, and the enduring connections to home.

Celebrating Regional Talent on a Global Stage

Arts Minister Ruth Mackenzie expressed her enthusiasm for the representation of remarkable artists from Yorkshire and the Humber, as well as the East of England, within the Government Art Collection. She stated, “Through Art X-UK, we are recognising creative talent from every part of the country, championing regional artists and helping them to flourish on an international level.”

Launched in 2022, the GAC’s five-year programme aims to collect works from innovative talents and showcase the best of British creativity, thereby promoting further interest in the nation’s esteemed creative sector. The Art X-UK project began as a successful pilot scheme in 2020-21, resulting in the acquisition of over 170 pieces by 80 contemporary visual artists to date.

Global Reach and Impact of the Collection

The newly acquired works will be displayed to audiences both in the UK and abroad, featuring prominently in government buildings across the country and in ten British embassies and ambassadorial residences around the world, including locations such as Washington DC, Ankara, Abu Dhabi, and Paris.

Grace Clifford reflected on her excitement regarding the acquisition of her bronze pub stool, stating, “It fills me with joy and pride to see my work in such a significant public collection. It truly takes a village to make these things happen.” Similarly, Issam Kourbaj articulated how his artwork, “Water Awash With Memory,” explores the intertwined histories of the East of England and broader themes of displacement.

Honouring Underrepresented Narratives

For Kedisha Coakley, the inclusion of her pieces “Collection 15” and “I AM HERE: Breadfruit II” in the Government Art Collection signifies a meaningful shift in the representation of Black British experiences. Coakley emphasised the importance of her work in making visible histories that have often been overlooked in national collections.

Sam Metz shared how his artistic journey has been enriched by the supportive community in Yorkshire, crediting local organisations for nurturing disabled artists and fostering a vibrant creative environment. Claire Cansick expressed pride in representing Norfolk through her work, highlighting the often-overlooked artistic community in the region. Amartey Golding noted the significance of his piece “Bring Me to Heal” in the context of the East of England’s rich historical tapestry.

Collaborative Efforts to Enhance Cultural Representation

Paula Orrell, National Director of the Contemporary Visual Arts Network (CVAN) in England, praised the diverse range of artists representing the depth of contemporary practice across Yorkshire and the East of England. She remarked on the importance of collaborating with regional visual arts networks to ensure the national collection reflects the richness of artistic expression throughout the country.

Sharon Gill, CEO of the Yorkshire and Humber Visual Art Network (YVAN), highlighted the privilege of working alongside regional colleagues to support and celebrate local artists. Meanwhile, Rosie Cooper, Director of Wysing Arts Centre, described the Government Art Collection as a vital repository of the UK’s cultural history, offering insights into various perspectives and experiences.

Looking Ahead to Future Acquisitions

As the GAC continues its commitment to acquiring diverse artworks, it has already secured over 30 new pieces from Wales and the Midlands in the first year of the project. The upcoming year will see over 20 new acquisitions from Scotland and the North East, further enriching the national collection with voices and stories from across the UK.

In the years to come, the GAC plans to collaborate with regional networks, including YVAN and CVAN East, to identify and promote emerging talents, ensuring that the national collection remains a dynamic reflection of the UK’s artistic landscape.