Linda Bell’s art rings across borders

Learning-disabled artist Linda Bell, who’s been creating art for 27 years, has achieved international recognition after a selection of her sculptural works was acquired by the Geneva State Collection (FCAC). 

Based inside the Geneva Freeport, the FCAC is a publicly funded collection that promotes the work of artists from around the world. To this day, nobody knows how many works are storied inside the institution – its chairman talks of ‘a million’ but the New York Times claims the figure is nearer 1.2 million. 

The acquisition follows Bell’s solo exhibition at Tate Modern, Linda Bell: Loop. Swing. Shake. Remake, which ran from 31 March to 7 April, which featured large-scale paintings and hanging sculptures designed to be activated by visitors through touch, movement and reshaping.

Bell’s brother, Raymond, said art helps his sister understand those around her. 

‘I’m very proud of Linda and everything that she does,’ he said. ‘Seeing the public admiring her work is just amazing. Linda is non-verbal and non-hearing, and so I do believe that she uses her art as a way to watch and engage with other people.’

Bell has been supported by Creative Support over the past five years as her artistic practice has continued to develop.

Abiodun Smart Omoruyi, manager of the Creative Support service, said: ‘Linda’s artwork is so fascinating and truly beautiful. It is so important that she is taken seriously as an artist.

‘It seems the art world is becoming more accessible and inclusive, which is necessary. I believe Linda will go far.’

To coincide with Bell’s recent exhibition, Creative Support produced a short documentary, which can be viewed below. 

Charlotte Hollinshead, head of artist development at the charity ActionSpace, has worked with Bell since 1999. She claims that ‘no one in the world makes artwork like Linda.’ She added: ‘Not only is she making amazing work but she is also a real role model for people. For years, she has been running workshops with children in special education and supporting them to get creative. She is someone to look up to.’

Images: Linda Bell 

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