On March 22nd Somerset House opened its doors once again to the graphic art Pick Me Up fair for the third consecutive year, showcasing a wonderful array of work from a diverse range of artists, illustrators and designers.

I never fail to get excited when I see the dates appear for this art spectacle, I've been each year since it was first launched back in 2010 and it has never disappointed when it comes to great and inspiring work. The only downside is checking your bank balance the day after so make sure you set yourself a realistic budget before you go!

A selection of live art being created by various artists on the day

Once through the entrance the ground floor was filled with the beautiful work of the upcoming artists that formed the Pick Me Up Selects exhibition, which is made up of 20 rising stars’ work.

I really was overwhelmed by the pieces on show but I’ve picked out a few of my personal favourites for you to take a look at below.

This piece by Tim McDonagh, a graduate of the University of Westminster, really caught my eye with his use of vivid colours and mythical influences. I don't know what goes through his head when he’s creating these elaborate scenes but it works for me.

This cunning fox produced by Sarah Maycock was my favourite artist at the fair. Her paint strokes really brought the animals to life and she was definitely the talking point of the event. I just wish I'd had the bank balance to buy one of these incredible pieces as they were a little on the pricey side (around £300 a pop).

This was the first print I bought at the event by A Two Pipe Problem. It's the perfect motto to go next to my cocktail bar at home and you just can't beat letterpress for the beautiful texture it produces.

In one of the galleries you got the chance to produce your own one off print with the help of the Museum of Objects & Origins. Above is my attempt at creating a gallery worthy masterpiece. Any buyers?

Overall it was a great way to spend a weekend and see the up and coming Picassos of our generation, along with a chance to grab some great work to take home. I would definitely recommend it to any creative who fancies a whole day of print.

See you next year Pick Me Up!

Written by Ben Tustin, our current placement.
Main image credit: Mimi Leung