Curtis Holder Brings His Unique Insight to the Drawing (Paper) Show 2025 at Independents Biennial
Liverpool’s creative pulse thrives at the Bridewell Studios and Gallery
Liverpool’s creative scene is buzzing once again, and we at Liverpool Noise are always thrilled to see initiatives that champion artistic talent, especially when they bring fresh perspectives and opportunities to our vibrant city. That’s why the announcement of renowned artist Curtis Holder as the guest judge for the 2025 ‘Drawing (Paper) Show’ has truly piqued our interest. It’s a move that promises to elevate an already exciting part of the Liverpool Independents Biennial, offering a fantastic platform for contemporary drawing.
Holder, whose captivating portraiture has garnered widespread acclaim, expressed his enthusiasm, stating,
“I am excited to be joining the Drawing (Paper) Show 2025 as a guest judge. It is a brilliant opportunity to celebrate and support contemporary drawing as part of this international exhibition and publication.”
This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the show and indeed, the Independents Biennial itself – a celebration of art for art’s sake, but also a vital spring- board for emerging and established artists alike.
The ‘Drawing (Paper) Show’, founded in 2023 by the dynamic trio of artists Colette Lilley, Sarah Jane Richards, and Jon Barraclough, has quickly established itself as a significant event within the Liverpool art calendar. Their vision to showcase around 50 selected works from an open call is a testament to their commitment to democratic access within the art world, allowing a diverse range of voices and styles to be heard. This dedication to fostering new talent is something that Liverpool Noise heartily endorses, echoing our own mission to spotlight the unsung heroes and the burgeoning stars of Merseyside’s cultural landscape.
The exhibition itself will take pride of place at Bridewell Studios and Gallery, a fitting venue that itself breathes creativity and community. Running from 11 – 31 July 2025, it will sit proudly alongside the main Liverpool Biennial, offering an alternative yet equally compelling artistic journey for visitors. This parallel programming is crucial, ensuring that the Independents Biennial truly lives up to its name, providing a unique and often more raw exploration of contemporary art.
Beyond the exhibition walls, the selected artists gain even further exposure. Their work will be featured in the 10th edition of Drawing Paper, a publication that continues to be a vital resource for drawing enthusiasts and professionals. Furthermore, inclusion in the Directory of Drawing Artists (DoDA) offers a truly unique platform, directly connecting artists with audiences, collectors, and commissioners. It’s this kind of practical, career- boosting support that truly makes a difference to artists in today’s challenging creative climate.
With Curtis Holder’s keen eye and commitment to the craft, coupled with the show’s established reputation for quality and support, the 2025 ‘Drawing (Paper) Show’ is set to be a highlight of Liverpool’s artistic year. We can’t wait to see the talent that emerges and the conversations that unfold…
The Drawing Paper Show 2025
Bridewell Studios and Gallery
11th July – 31st July – admission between 1200 – 1600
Follow @drawingpapershow and @bridewellstudiosliverpool on Instagram for news and updates.
