AXA XL announces winner of AXA Art Prize UK 2024

Authored by AXA XL

AXA XL is delighted to announce Wendy Freestone as the winner of the AXA Art Prize UK 2024. Ms. Freestone’s artwork, titled “IN THE QUIETEST MOMENTS” was selected from the Royal Academy of Arts 2024 Summer Exhibition and she was awarded the £10,000 prize.

The judges for this year’s prize included Jennifer Schipf, Global Chief Underwriting Officer for Fine Art & Specie at AXA XL; Mark Hampson, Head of Fine Art Processes at the Royal Academy Schools; and Gillian Wearing RA, a renowned artist. Ms. Freestone’s piece captivated the judges with its profound exploration of everyday moments and the intimate portrayal of womanhood.

Ms. Schipf commented, “It has been an incredible privilege to delve into the world of figurative art in the UK. Wendy’s work stood out for its honesty and depth. We are proud to support and provide a platform for such talented artists to share their unique perspectives with a global audience.”

Wendy Freestone, who divides her time between London and South Northants, began her second career in fine art after graduating with First Class Honours in 2005. During the pandemic, she expanded her practice by enrolling in advanced courses at the Essential School of Painting, culminating in her graduation from the Artist Development Programme in 2024.

Sean McGovern, CEO UK & Lloyds Market, AXA XL, added, “Partnering with the Royal Academy of Arts to highlight outstanding artistic talent in the UK continues to be a pleasure. As a leading fine art insurer, we believe in the power of art to inspire and enrich our lives.”

The AXA Art Prize UK builds on AXA XL’s 15-year legacy of recognizing artists in the UK through the prestigious Catlin Art Prize and extends the reach of the AXA Art Prize US student art competition, now in its seventh year.

AXA XL, a division of AXA, is one of the largest fine art insurers in the world. Our fine arts professionals have built a solid foundation based on years of industry experience in understanding the value, both financial and sentimental, when it comes to safeguarding works of art, jewelry, and specie. With AXA XL’s global footprint that includes over 1,200 highly experienced, locally empowered claims professionals managing covered claims in more than 200 countries and territories, we’ll be there for you – wherever and whenever you need us. To learn more, please visit www.axaxl.com.