Artist chalks up commission to represent Scotland at top festival

Karla Black has attracted acclaim for her expansive floor works and hanging sculptures, created from materials ranging from powder paint to nail varnish and body cream.

Now her works will form the Scottish representation at the Venice Biennale next year.

Scottish art lovers will have the opportunity to preview Ms Black's work at the Fruitmarket Gallery in Edinburgh.

Ms Black said: "I am very much looking forward to making an exhibition in the Scottish Pavilion at Venice next year."

Fiona Bradley, director of the Fruitmarket Gallery, added: "The Fruitmarket Gallery is delighted to have been selected to curate Scotland and Venice 2011, and to be working with Karla Black. Karla is one of Scotland's most interesting artists, whose beautiful, thoughtful and visceral sculpture has already made an impact internationally and in Scotland."

Scotland and Venice 2011 is a partnership between the Scottish Arts Council, the National Galleries of Scotland and the British Council Scotland.

Culture minister Fiona Hyslop said: "Following the tremendous success of Martin Boyce's installation No Reflections at the 2009 Biennale, I am delighted to see the same partners working together to ensure an equally inspirational Scottish presence in 2011.

"This is a clear demonstration of the continued growth and achievement of Scotland's visual arts sector. As the largest arts festival in the world, the Venice Biennale provides an excellent platform to showcase our talent to a global audience.

Jim Tough, chief executive of the Scottish Arts Council said: "The Venice Biennale is the most prestigious showcase for the visual arts and we are proud to once again present a major solo show.

"We look forward to working closely with one of Scotland's most exciting artists and with the Fruitmarket Gallery, whose curatorial excellence will help build on Scotland's reputation."