Oxfordshire-born sculptor Will Budgett has received international recognition after being awarded the “Lorenzo il Magnifico” 4th Prize for Sculpture at the Florence Biennale, one of the world’s most prestigious contemporary art exhibitions.
Held in the historic Fortezza da Basso, the Florence Biennale brought together artists from more than 80 countries, including recognised names such as Tim Burton, Emily Young, Chao Ge, Mario Pachioli, and Andrea Prandi. The event is celebrated globally as a leading platform for innovation and artistic dialogue across disciplines.
Budgett’s award-winning sculpture, Elan, explores the interaction between light and solid form, transforming materials into fluid, shifting silhouettes. His distinctive approach blurs the line between presence and absence, creating pieces that seem to exist in both shadow and substance.
The Oxfordshire artist was invited to exhibit in Florence following his appearance at the London Biennale in July, where he showcased his sculpture Ascend.
This year’s Biennale theme, “Light and Darkness: Concepts of Dualism and Unity in Contemporary Art and Design,” provided the perfect setting for Budgett’s ethereal work.
Speaking about the experience, Budgett said:
“The Florence Biennale is such a powerful platform for artists who want to connect craft with meaning, and it was surreal to see my work in the same space as artists I’ve admired for years.
“I didn’t fully believe it when I was invited to exhibit, the theme of light and darkness couldn’t have been a better fit for what I do.
“But then to finish with one of their most prestigious awards is a bit overwhelming. An enormous bunch of cherries on a very large cake.”
Named in honour of Lorenzo de’ Medici, the Lorenzo il Magnifico awards are judged by an international panel of curators, critics, and scholars, recognising excellence in contemporary art and design.
Born and raised near Woodstock, Budgett creates sculptures that explore the relationship between light, form, and perception. His process begins with projected silhouettes that guide the sculpture’s construction, resulting in works that appear to move between materiality and illusion.
Budgett will soon exhibit a selection of his works in the gardens at The Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock, from the end of November.
