The NEAC announces 2025-26 Scholars

What made you apply for the NEAC scholarship?

I applied for the scholarship with the NEAC with the hope of being able to connect with, and learn from, some of my favourite painters. I’d followed them individually for some time; when I discovered they were all connected by the NEAC, and learnt about its values and its history, I knew it was something I wanted to be part of. I was thrilled to have work accepted into the annual exhibition last year - and then to win the scholarship this year just blew me away.

What does winning mean to you?

I’ll admit, I cried a bit! That the people I look up to see worth in what I’m doing, and want to support me, meant everything. It raised my own estimation of myself and my future, and made me even more determined to carve out this path. I feel very, very fortunate.

What are you most looking forward to about the next year of the scholarship?

I’m really excited to be able to visit members in their studios, getting to know them and getting nerdy on materials and processes - as well as hopefully discussing broader ideas about finding one’s way as an artist. I’m really looking forward to pushing my skills and experimenting in the workshops, finding more of a rhythm in my practice, and coming closer to expressing my voice. Finally, I’m looking forward to being in the show next year, and to finding myself on firmer footing with what I’m able to give back.

What made you apply for the NEAC scholarship?

The chance to receive mentoring was the main thing that encouraged me to apply for the NEAC scholarship. I’ve exhibited in the Annual Exhibition several times, and while I was delighted to be selected, the real highlight was the conversations I had with the member artists at the private view. Talking to people who shared my passion for painting, and who appreciated the nerdy details, was a real revelation. I learned so much from those brief chats, and it made me realise how valuable more in-depth mentoring could be. 

What does winning mean to you?

Being awarded the scholarship means a great deal to me. It offers a valuable opportunity to engage with member artists, take part in workshops, and explore new ways of working. I’m particularly excited about experimenting, developing my ideas, and pushing my practice further.

What are you most looking forward to about the next year of the scholarship?

My work explores relationships between people and objects, something that grew out of my work with museum collections. During the scholarship year I’m looking forward to taking this further by developing my figure painting. I’m really looking forward to having interesting conversations with other artists in their studios and in the NEAC workshops. I’ve just been to my first workshop with Laura Smith at the National Gallery, which was great fun and really inspiring. It’s going to be an exciting year!

What made you apply for the NEAC scholarship?

I applied for the NEAC scholarship because I strongly align with the society’s dedication to authentic observation and the enduring power of figurative art. The NEAC’s commitment to contemporary relevance resonates with my own artistic values too. This scholarship presents a unique opportunity for myself to learn from some of the UK’s accomplished figurative painters, and I’m eager to grow through their mentorship. I also hope to build lasting connections within the NEAC community and contribute meaningfully to its vibrant artistic dialogue.

What does winning mean to you?

Receiving this scholarship holds significance for me. It not only offers me a chance to build meaningful relationships with NEAC members and become more immersed in the society’s artistic culture, but also provides access to a wealth of knowledge and diverse approaches to figurative painting. I am excited to learn from the experience and refine my own practice through exposure to authentic, observational methods. Additionally, the financial support will enable me to invest in quality materials, allowing me to push the boundaries of my creative exploration and continue developing my artistic voice. 

What are you most looking forward to about the next year of the scholarship?

What I look forward to most in this scholarship is the opportunity to connect with NEAC members and learn directly from some of the UK’s leading figurative artists. The educational workshops offered through the programme are especially exciting, as they will provide valuable insight into different techniques and approaches. I’m also eager to challenge myself creatively—pushing the boundaries of my practice and stepping outside of my comfort zone to grow both artistically and personally.