Month: October 2025

Emily Young Receives the “Lorenzo il Magnifico” Lifetime Achievement Award at the XV Florence Biennale 2025

We are delighted to announce that our studio holder, Emily Young, has been honoured with the prestigious “Lorenzo il Magnifico” Lifetime Achievement Award at the XV Florence Biennale 2025.

This distinguished award recognises Emily’s exceptional contribution to contemporary sculpture and her enduring influence on the international art world. Through her profound connection with natural materials and her exploration of humanity’s relationship with the earth, Emily’s work continues to inspire and move audiences around the globe.

By receiving this award, Emily joins an esteemed group of past laureates whose creativity and vision have defined contemporary art and culture – including Marina Abramović, Christo & Jeanne-Claude, David Hockney, Anish Kapoor, Gilbert & George, El Anatsui, Marta Minujín, Arata Isozaki, Vivienne Westwood, Franco Zeffirelli, Oliviero Toscani, Refik Anadol, David LaChapelle, and Giampaolo Talani.

The Florence Biennale, founded in 1997, stands as one of the world’s most important platforms for contemporary art and design, celebrating innovation, sustainability, and cultural dialogue. The “Lorenzo il Magnifico” Lifetime Achievement Award is its highest honour, recognising artists whose body of work has made a lasting contribution to global artistic heritage.

Creativity is not a constant flow, it is a rhythm that ebbs and rises. With the right environment, a supportive community, and small moments of inspiration, even the shortest days can be full of creative energy. At Great Western Studios, you have all three at your fingertips – from beautifully designed spaces to an engaged network of creators and stimulating seasonal events. Embrace the season, get inspired, and let your creativity flourish.

Congratulations to Emily Young on this extraordinary recognition of her life’s work and artistic vision.

3 Ways to Stay Creative as the Days Get Shorter

As daylight hours shrink and evenings draw in, many creatives find it harder to stay motivated. But winter does not have to mean stagnation, it can be a season for reflection, growth, and inspiration. Great Western Studios provides the perfect environment and community to help you thrive creatively, even during the shortest days.

Work in an Inspiring Space

Your environment has a huge impact on creativity. At GWS, you will find bright studios with natural light, thoughtfully designed workspaces, and areas for quiet focus or collaborative projects. Being in a space that feels stimulating yet comfortable can make all the difference in maintaining momentum through the darker months.

Tap Into the Creative Community

Creativity often thrives in connection. GWS is home to a diverse mix of artists, designers, architects, and makers. Sharing ideas, collaborating on projects, or even just seeing others at work can inspire new ways of thinking. Events, workshops, and pop-ups hosted by GWS offer even more opportunities to network, learn, and spark fresh ideas.

Balance Indoor Work with Outdoor Inspiration

Even when daylight is limited, stepping outside can rejuvenate your mind. West London offers pockets of light and greenery that help reset your energy. Combine outdoor walks with GWS’s seasonal events or informal community gatherings to refresh your perspective. Small changes in scenery, combined with creative interaction, can reignite your passion and focus.

Creativity is not a constant flow, it is a rhythm that ebbs and rises. With the right environment, a supportive community, and small moments of inspiration, even the shortest days can be full of creative energy. At Great Western Studios, you have all three at your fingertips – from beautifully designed spaces to an engaged network of creators and stimulating seasonal events. Embrace the season, get inspired, and let your creativity flourish.