Jasleen Kaur Wins 2024 Turner Prize

Artist Jasleen Kaur has won the 2024 Turner Prize. At 38, she was the youngest finalist, sponsored by Tate Britain. Other shortlisted artists included Pio Abad, Claudette Johnson, and Delaine Le Bas.

Exhibition Details

Kaur received the prize for her exhibition “Alter Altar,”  which features sculptures and soundscapes, drawing inspiration from her Indian Sikh upbringing in Glasgow. Key pieces include a red Ford Escort adorned with a lace doily and an acrylic “sky” filled with everyday objects. The exhibition also features a large rug and a unique soundtrack that blends various musical styles.

Themes and Inspirations

Kaur’s work explores personal, political, and spiritual themes. The jury praised her ability to create a visual and auditory experience. Her art conveys messages of solidarity and joy. Kaur has expressed a fascination with Sikh traditions that balance politics and spirituality. She reflects on how historical events disrupt religious unity.

Acceptance Speech and Activism

During her acceptance speech, Kaur showed support for pro-Palestinian protesters outside Tate Britain. She wore a scarf featuring the Palestinian flag. Kaur called for a ceasefire in Gaza. She urged Tate museums to sever ties with donors linked to Israel’s government. Kaur brought into light that these demands should not jeopardise artists’ careers or safety.

Before the award ceremony, Kaur released an open letter,  signed by over 1,200 artists and art workers. The letter demanded that Tate end its complicity in genocide.

About the Turner Prize

The Turner Prize is awarded annually by Tate Britain, recognises recent work by artists from or working in Britain. The winner receives £25,000, while finalists get £10,000. The prize is named after the 19th-century painter JMW Turner. It has been awarded to notable artists like Damien Hirst and Steve McQueen.

GKToday Facts for Exams:

1. Turner Prize – The Turner Prize, established in 1984, recognises contemporary British artists. It is named after JMW Turner and has impact on the art community.
2. Alter Altar – “Alter Altar” is Jasleen Kaur’s award-winning exhibition. It features a blend of sculptures and soundscapes, reflecting her Sikh heritage and exploring themes of spirituality and unity.
3. Pro-Palestinian Activism – Kaur’s acceptance speech brought into light pro-Palestinian activism. She called for a ceasefire in Gaza and urged Tate Britain to end ties with donors linked to Israel’s government.
4. Sikh Tradition – Sikh tradition often intertwines politics and spirituality. Kaur draws inspiration from this balance, reflecting on how historical events disrupt religious unity and personal identity.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Art & Culture Current Affairs