Scots Artist Wins Turner Prize 2024 with Installation Featuring Doily on a Car
Scottish artist Jasleen Kaur has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Turner Prize for 2024. Kaur claimed the prize for her solo exhibition, Alter Altar, which included an unconventional installation featuring a car adorned with a giant doily. The award was presented in a ceremony at Tate Britain, where actor James Norton revealed Kaur as the recipient. The jury commended Kaur for her unique ability to bring together diverse voices through unexpected and playful combinations of materials, such as Irn-Bru, family photographs, and a vintage Ford Escort. They also praised her for capturing moments of resilience and possibility.
Originally from Glasgow but currently residing and working in London, Kaur’s nomination stemmed from an exhibition she held at Tramway in Glasgow the previous year. Her exhibition, which delved into themes of religious identities, politics, and history, featured a variety of sounds including worship bells, Sufi Islamic devotional music, Indian harmonium, and pop tracks. The Turner Prize, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, honours British artists with a £25,000 cash prize for their exceptional exhibitions or works.
Established in 1984 and named after British painter JMW Turner, previous recipients of the award include renowned artists like Sir Anish Kapoor, Damien Hirst, and Sir Steve McQueen. The prize will be awarded in 2025 at Bradford’s Cartwright Hall art gallery, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of Turner’s birth. The exhibition showcasing the works of the four shortlisted artists – Pio Abad, Claudette Johnson, Delaine Le Bas, and Jasleen Kaur – will be on display at Tate Britain until February 16, 2025.
In conclusion, Kaur’s victory highlights her innovative approach to art and her ability to spark conversation through her creative installations. The Turner Prize continues to recognise and celebrate the diverse talents within the British art scene, showcasing groundbreaking works that challenge and inspire audiences worldwide.