Master Class 2017

Testing Ground: Master Class is a week-long intensive for emerging artists developed in collaboration with artist Doug Fishbone.

Now in its 5th year, Master Class offers a unique and free opportunity for eight emerging artists nominated by artist-led spaces from around the UK and, for the first time, a national Open Call. Over the course of a week, the participants will work closely with leading international artists to discuss and develop their individual practices through a series of tutorials, workshops, reading groups, studio and gallery visits and seminars.

This year the guest tutors are: Chantal Joffe, Heather Phillipson and Eve Sussman, all artists whose work is in the Zabludowicz Collection. Each will give a free public lecture about their work. Details of the lectures and how to book are below.

The emerging artists participating in this year’s initiative are Chris Alton (selected via an open call), Emilie Atkinson (Airspace Gallery, Stoke on Trent), Simon Bayliss (Eastside Projects, Birmingham), Kelly Best (G39, Cardiff), Hannah Farrell (Coastic Coastal, Salford), Roberto Picciau (Navigator North, Middlesbrough), Sophie Rogers (selected via an open call) and Kirsty Russell (The Anatomy Rooms, Aberdeen).

Participant testimonials

An invaluable chance to work on professionalising your practice and create new networks. It totally refreshed the way I think about being an artist.
Emilie Atkinson

An encouraging and enjoyable week, creating enthusiasm and lots of new relationships.
Sophie Rogers

Amazing visiting lecturers and very generous team of people.
Simon Bayliss