Cumbrian artists on display at 60th anniversary of the Venice Biennale

Working under the banner of Proseed Collective, these artists will reveal their pieces at the highly esteemed 60th anniversary of the Venice Biennale, an event described as the “Olympics of art”.

Carlisle-based artist, Daniel Ibbotson, was invited once more to present his work after hosting his own exhibition in 2022 at the festival in Venice.

This year, however, he invited 40 fellow artists to collaborate with him for the exhibition.

“It’s going to be good fun seeing so many Cumbrian artists over there. They are all really excited,” Daniel said. 

Palazzo Bembo, where the exhibition will be held. (Image: Supplied)

“The place is absolutely amazing, on the Grand Canal with the possibilities of some serious people in attendance. Yoko Ono is involved in the exhibitions, I believe Michael Caine is also on the guest list, it’s very high profile.”

The exhibition, held at the Palazzo Bembo, will run from this week to November 24, with many of the Cumbrian artists already having arrived to see the Proseed display.

Daniel himself has included one of his pieces within the 40-strong display, all placed in a grid style with the same dimensions.

One of Daniel Ibbotson’s previous pieces. (Image: Supplied)

“I’ve used different stages of people’s careers.

“We’ve got three recent graduates from the University of Cumbria and other really established artists, such as 70-year-olds who are experienced but have never been to Venice before.

“It’s brilliant to be able to provide that.

“I felt that last time by myself, now it’s great to share it.

“It’s been really hard work to get it together, I’ve had to sacrifice my own work to deal with the logistics of it all but I’ll get the benefit over the next couple of days,” Daniel said.

The Proseed Collective was formed in 2020 by Daniel as a response to the COVID pandemic, aiming to give a boost to local artists.

It continues to flourish, highlighted by their presence at this esteemed event.