Re-Generation is an exhibition of work by contemporary artists exploring personal responses of being affected by cancer. In 2006 Re-Generation was launched to much public acclaim and media attention in London’s prestigious County Hall Gallery. Throughout the two week show it attracted over 3000 visitors, and national media attention. Artists who have been affected by cancer, either directly or through a family member or friend, came together to produce a unique, positive and striking exhibition of painting, drawing, photography, video and installation.

It all came about as a series of paintings about cancer cells and was offered the County Hall Gallery space as a venue for my show. It was too large for a solo show so I decided to advertise nationally through AN magazine as well as through artist forums for artist’s proposals. We received an overwhelming response and carefully choose 25 artists. The name Re-Generation is based on cancer being a degenerative disease and we want to make a positive response to this.

Re-Generation is about artists who had been affected by Cancer either themselves or through a family member or a friend, sharing their experiences. Since cancer is a level playing ground and doesn’t discriminate, Re-Generation showcases the work of artists based on relevance, and strength rather then individual success. What is hoped is that Re-Generation gives artists the opportunity to explore and express the very real issues surrounding cancer. It is hoped through surprising and creative approaches the art will be a catalyst for renewal in the face of the disease. Re-Generation is an important art exhibition confronting responses to cancer and offering the hope of redeeming negative attitudes to the disease through contemporary artworks.

It is planned that Re-Generation will become a bi-annual exhibition and become an event in the art world calendar. The show will also act as a snapshot of some of the best new art being made in Britain today. It is hoped that Re-Generation will eventually become a charity status company to help people affected by Cancer and a commissioning body.