José Carlos Naranjo is currently undertaking a six week residency in our purpose built artists studio, José won Griffin Art Prize Iberia 2014 and moved into the studio at the beginning of February.

'Griffin Gallery and our supporting brands Winsor & Newton, Liquitex and Conté à Paris are committed to supporting emerging artists at the most critical point in their careers, and one of the ways we are able to do this is through offering short term residencies in our purpose built studio above the gallery space in west London.  We endeavour to provide a supportive, welcoming experience for visiting artists that gives them a thorough introduction to the London contemporary art scene.  International residencies include a mentor, sourced through our partners ACAVA, accommodation and art materials.  The studio is situated next to our Innovation & Development Laboratory, and over the course of the residency artists are given the opportunity to speak to and work alongside art materials specialists.  This interaction between artist and scientist sits at the heart of our company ethos, and has a positive influence on the development of both parties. 

Born in Villamartin near Seville, this is José’s first time in London but the residency opportunity has already borne fruit for him with an inclusion in a high profile group exhibition at Beers Contemporary and a solo show titled Orden y Desorden at Galería Birimbao of Seville. José Carlos is an extraordinary and very exciting artist and it has been an absolute honour to have him working in the building.  For me, one of the greatest benefits of the residency programme is watching an artist grow, and knowing that we’ve been able to support that growth.' - Becca Pelly-Fry, Griffin Gallery Director

On Wednesday 4 March Griffin Gallery will host an open studio for José, where he will be showing the work he has created in the studio; some finished, some work-in-progress.