LJMU postgraduate researchers selected for British Council Venice Fellowships

Two PhD students from LJMU’s School of Art and Creative Industries, supported by its Institute of Art and Technology (IAT), will join 58 other Venice Fellows representing the UK at the British Pavilion during the Venice Biennale 2026.

Gabriela Saenger Silva and Geneva Beckford were selected by the British Council for the fellowships which will see each of them spend a portion of time between May and October 2026 in Venice working alongside British Pavilion artist Lubaina Himid and the curatorial team.

As exhibition ambassadors, they will engage with visiting members of the public while developing their own research and creative projects, using Venice as a platform for learning, collaboration and exchange.

Find out more about Gabriela and Geneva’s ambitions for their residencies.

Professor Joasia Krysa, Director of the Institute of Art and Technology at LJMU, said: “This is a very prestigious partnership for LJMU and an exceptional professional opportunity for our postgraduate researchers aimed at enhancing career and employment prospects.”

The fellowship programme is supported in partnership with 35 UK universities, including LJMU for the second time, bringing together a range of diverse emerging artists, curators, researchers and future cultural leaders from across the UK.

Gabriela and Geneva have been supported by LJMU staff, Dr Emma Roberts and Dr Christine Eyene, as part of the fellowship programme. Both were on the selection panel and have liaised with the British Council over all the practical arrangements ahead of the students’ upcoming month-long residencies in Venice.