Now is not the most conducive time for artistic experiment or risk taking. So the launch of the Omni Artist Award, which allows four artists to do precisely that, is especially welcome. Omni is a London-based company founded by Bob Pain. For nearly 30 years it has been working with public institutions, artists and independent galleries to print pretty much anything on everything, ranging from Heather Phillipson’s giant eggs at Gloucester Road Underground Station to Lawrence Weiner’s letters at Blenheim Palace.
Now Omni is awarding four artists £1,000 each in production and material support as well as the use of its digital print facilities to make whatever they want, whether fine art prints, signage, banners, posters or wallpaper.
In addition to the award, Omni are also offering free sample packs containing all their different materials to any who requests one. They hope this will help to trigger inspiration and encourage the use of materials in unorthodox ways. “We want to enable artists in their production and to facilitate experimentation at a time when so many have had opportunities disrupted,” says Pain.
• Application closing date 1 September, to enquire further contact: award@omnicolour.com
