Environmental degradation, gender expression, and subjugation are just some of the themes being explored in this year’s Travers Smith CSR Art Programme.
Now in its fifth year, this exciting programme is an integral part of the firm’s CSR Programme and plays an important role in supporting local communities and nurturing emerging talent.
Supporting a larger cohort than its predecessor, this year’s CSR Art Programme features 57 artworks produced by final-year undergraduate students from the University of Westminster and postgraduate students from the Royal College of Art. The vibrant and diverse artworks will be on display across meeting rooms, client dining spaces and other communal areas in the firm’s London office.
Recognising that establishing a career as a professional artist is a challenging undertaking, the core objective of the Programme is to support emerging talent and provide participating artists with valuable skills as they transition from university to professional practice. Travers Smith offers participating artists a range of professional support, including workshops on business skills and pro bono legal advice relevant to being a professional artist. The artworks are also available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly back to the students.
Once again, Travers Smith will be partnering with Serpentine Galleries, one of the most successful and influential galleries in Europe. Through this partnership, the firm will be offering participating artists valuable insights into exhibition planning and development, as well as opportunities to meet curators and established artists.
CSR Partner, Donald Lowe said: “The Art Programme sits right at the heart of our Corporate Social Responsibility work and highlights our commitment to CSR from the moment someone enters our offices. Now in its fifth year, we are delighted not only to be expanding our collection, but also to be able to support a larger cohort of student artists.”
Joseph Constable, Assistant Curator, Serpentine Galleries, London said: “Travers Smith’s CSR Art Programme offers artists an exceptional level of support at one of the most significant moments in the development of their practice. The programme stands out for its extended investment in and dedication to the recent graduates involved in the process each year, as well as a deep understanding of the practicalities of working as an artist today."
Raine Smith, Course Leader, BA Fine Art Mixed Media, Westminster School of Art, University of Westminster said: “Students and staff, who have taken part in this year’s scheme, have immensely enjoyed engaging with the Travers Smith team and we are delighted to be partnering with the firm on this exciting initiative for a fifth year.”
Jo Stockham, Professor and Head of Print Programme, Royal College of Art said: “We are grateful for Travers Smith for facilitating this opportunity for the students, and for the support they provide in helping artists develop their commercial knowledge via their excellent professional development programme. We look forward to continuing our thriving and rewarding relationship with the firm.”
The firm will also be awarding three cash prizes to winning artists, as chosen by an independent panel of expert judges, and a firm-wide popular vote.