Portrait of Rizza Zahid by James Bland
Last year, I was one of the panel of volunteers who had the task of choosing the 2024-25 NEAC Scholars. After a long, hot day at Mall Galleries, the shortlist of six somehow came down to three phenomenally talented artists: Charlotte Houlihan, Rizza Zahid, and Theo Dunford.
As the panel cooled down in St James’s Park, my feelings were: satisfaction at having participated in something rigorous and important; regret at not being able to give out more scholarships; and a desire to carry on the conversations we’d been having that day.
As well as receiving funding and free participation in workshops, the scholars are encouraged to visit the studios of participating NEAC members. I was thrilled when Charlotte made the trip across from Oxfordshire, and we were able to continue the conversation over some painting. I remember we talked about colour as well as the challenges of making a living out of art. I sketched Charlotte in oils, and she painted a fabulous still life in just a few colours, building on the ideas we’d discussed and passing it back. It was like jamming with Yehudi Menuhin.
A little later, I had the opportunity of meeting with Rizza and making a quick painting of her too. I’m in awe of the magic realism and narrative depth of her work. I tried to pick her brains about the sources of her inspiration while also talking a bit about how I paint. I came away inspired, and certainly feel I got at least as much out of both visits as the scholars.
Both paintings were done sitting on the floor. For me, it’s a comfortable and natural way of working. I hope it was for them. I look forward to seeing their work, and Theo’s, at this year’s Annual Exhibition.
Finally, I’d say the NEAC’s main draw for a participating artist, whether member, exhibitor, or scholar, is the multigenerational conversation about art that goes on behind the scenes. It takes many forms. It can be artists’ meet-ups and studio visits, lectures, mentorships, the crazily diverse Annual Show, or events run by our world-class, volunteer-led Education Programme.
James Bland, 2025 - Find out more about James on his NEAC artist profile.
- Applications are open for the 2025-26 NEAC Scholarships (worth £6,000) until Friday 16 May, 12 noon. Find out more.
- James Bland is leading a half-day online workshop & demo 'Transcription in Oils' on Saturday, 3 May, 2-5pm. Book your space.
