Exclusive VAO25 Art Prize Event: Insights and Inspirations from the Experts

If you're planning to apply for the VAO25 Art Prize, here’s one more reason to hit submit: you'll gain exclusive access to a virtual event designed to inspire, inform, and elevate your creative journey. Join the VAO judges and past art prize winners as they share valuable insights and inspiration – an opportunity available only to VAA Members and VAO Prize Applicants.

Join us for a dynamic Q&A session designed to empower Art Prize Applicants with the insider knowledge and inspiration needed to excel in your creative journey.

This session, led by VAA Directors Shirley-Ann O’Neil and Laura O’Hare, will feature VAO25 Award judges and Prize Winners sharing their personal experiences, creative strategies, and the secrets behind building lasting artistic credibility.

Learn From Our Panellists

Addi Aegisdottir (VAO25 Judge) is the Sales Director at Mall Galleries, home to the Federation of British Artists, and a key advocate for empowering artists through exhibitions, prizes, and learning opportunities. With expertise in the culture and heritage sector, sales development, and e-commerce, Addi has launched the Mall Galleries Art Consultancy, connecting private and corporate clients with emerging and established artists. Addi also has extensive experience in the primary and secondary art market, having worked with leading galleries and collectors internationally.

Olivia Mason (VAO25 Judge) is the Director of the Artists Futures Fund, leading its mission to support emerging artists facing socio-economic and health barriers. With a background in development roles at TATE and the Holburne Museum, she is passionate about expanding access to the arts and fostering artist development through funding and strategic partnerships.

Ben Summers – (VAO23 Painting Category Winner) is a British artist working across painting, mixed media, installation, and outdoor spaces. His work explores the evolving relationship between humans and their environments, blending fantastical imagery with real-world symbolism to create cinematic effects. A Slade School of Art graduate, Ben has exhibited at Mall Galleries, The Other Art Fair, and Christie’s.

What to Expect

In-Depth Expert Insights

Hear from high-profile judges and Prize Winners as they discuss their journeys, how they discovered their unique artistic voices, and the strategies they used to build their reputations. Learn more about VAO25 judges on the Judges Page.

Practical, Actionable Advice

Discover strategies for:

Writing a compelling artist statement
Presenting your portfolio with clarity and purpose
Balancing creativity with professionalism
Tailoring your application to resonate with judges

Mindset and Motivation

Explore how to overcome creative blocks, build confidence, and cultivate a strong mindset – especially when navigating self-doubt or imposter syndrome.

Interactive Q&A

Bring your questions. The session includes a live Q&A where you can engage directly with the panel, seek feedback, and gain personal insight into the application process.

How to Join

This event is only available to VAO25 Art Prize applicants and VAA Members. By applying to the VAO25, you won’t just be in the running for the award – you’ll also gain access to this focused, high-value event that could shape your career path. Visit the Visual Arts Open website to learn more and submit your application.

Join us and unlock the expert insights that will propel your artistic journey forward!

For enquiries: events@visual-artists.org