OXFORD.- A new initiative showcasing the talent of emerging artists from across the South East of England is being featured at Modern Art Oxford from late September through to November. The two-part exhibition presents the work of nine 2012 graduate artists from Oxford Brookes University, The Ruskin School of Drawing & Fine Art, Oxford Cherwell Valley College, and Reading University.

Initiated through CVAN, the contemporary visual arts network in the South East, Platform has been created to nurture new artistic talent and is supported by a coalition of visual arts organisations: Aspex, Milton Keynes Gallery, Modern Art Oxford and Turner Contemporary. Each organisation has selected graduates from their local area to participate in this series of exhibitions.

At Modern Art Oxford between 29 September – 28 October, Part I of Platform will feature five artists; Laura Bleach (Oxford Brookes University), Alana Francis (Reading University), Lucy Garnett (Oxford Cherwell Valley College), Kamila Janska (Ruskin School of Drawing and Fine Art) and Amy Wilkins (Oxford Brookes University).

These artists present a range of works that incorporate video and architectural installation, animation film, hand-made publications and sculpture using a variety of materials from textiles to plaster, steel and porcelain.

Some of the works themes seek to address contemporary concerns about social behavior, the changing global economy and the relationships between people and objects.

Part II of the Platform exhibition at Modern Art Oxford will begin on 30 October and run until 25 November 2012 and will feature the remaining four artists; Jack Eden (Oxford Brookes University), Hannah Mills (Reading University), Cara George and Jan Kaesbach (Ruskin School of Drawing and Fine Art).

A shortlist of artists from each of the four exhibitions across the South East will be nominated for the Platform Graduate Award, which includes a financial award of £2,500 and a 12-month programme of bespoke professional development. The winner will be announced at Modern Art Oxford on 22 November 2012.