In a remarkable achievement for the city’s creative community, three Hull-based artists have claimed the top honours in this year’s SCAF Emerging Artist Award, taking home first, second, and third place in the highly competitive regional competition.
The award, which highlights exciting talent from across Yorkshire, is run by the Scott Creative Arts Foundation (SCAF) – an organisation dedicated to supporting emerging artists of all backgrounds in their creative development. This year, ten finalists were selected from across the county to create new work responding to the theme of Time.
First prize was awarded to Lou Hazelwood for her genre-spanning photographic work “The Circle is Not”, praised by judges for its inventive approach and aesthetic brilliance.
Second place went to Ian Hinley, whose vibrant painting “A View of Saturn” uses symbolic imagery to great effect.
Third place was secured by Layla Jabbari, recognised for her innovative printmaking in “The Last Supper”.
Lydia Poole, curator at the SCAF, said: “It’s been an absolute privilege to witness the remarkable creativity coming out of Yorkshire in this year’s Emerging Artist Award at Scott Creative Arts Foundation. The winners, all hailing from Hull, not only demonstrate exceptional skill and vision, but also reflect the rich cultural landscape of the North. Their work is bold, diverse and poignant. A true testament to the power of emerging artists in northern contemporary art.”
All three winning pieces will be on display at The Art House, Thirsk, alongside the other finalists’ work until 13th September. The public is encouraged to attend the open day and public launch on Sunday 17th August and celebrate the achievements of Yorkshire’s artistic talent.
The three Hull winners will also speak as part of a panel discussion at The Art House on Sunday 31st August, sharing insights into their practice and the stories behind their work.
Lou Hazelwood said: “It’s an honour to be chosen as the winner of this award which celebrates and supports artists across Yorkshire and I am delighted that both Ian and Layla have been recognised as well, which really highlights the talent in the city. All the work was driven by the theme of Time and I worked abstractly with photography, which at its core is focused on time and light. Using sustainably foraged materials from East Yorkshire woodlands I created preparations which were left on the film in circular containers to alter the films emulsion.”
Ian Hinley commented: “It’s been amazing to be a part of this year’s award, it’s been a real career highlight and I think it’s a great testament to the depth of talent in Yorkshire.”
Layla Jabbari added: “I am so proud to have been selected for this exhibition amongst such amazing artists. Receiving the award alongside Ian and Lou is the icing on the cake.”