What Do Flags, Wars, and Fantasy Kingdoms Reveal About Turner Prize Artists?

This year's Turner Prize exhibition showcases the works of four diverse artists: Nnena Kalu, Mohammed Sami, Zadie Xa, and Rene Matić, each providing a unique perspective on contemporary themes through their installations at Cartwright Hall in Bradford. The exhibition opens on Saturday, with the winner to be announced on 9 December.

Last updated: 03 November 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

The Turner Prize exhibition features installations by four nominees, each with distinct artistic styles.
Rene Matić explores identity and belonging through mixed media reflecting modern British culture.
Zadie Xa's immersive installation invites viewers into a fantastical world inspired by Korean folklore.
Nnena Kalu presents vibrant sculptures and drawings embodying her unique artistic expression.
Mohammed Sami's powerful paintings depict the aftermath of conflict, resonating with contemporary issues.
The exhibition runs until 22 February, with its themes reflecting the complexities of modern life.

Overview of the Nominees

The Turner Prize has long been a barometer for contemporary art in the UK, and this year's exhibition is no exception. Held at Cartwright Hall in Bradford, the nominees represent a medley of experiences and backgrounds, reflecting the diverse nature of modern society. Each artist has taken over a gallery space, showcasing their installations that challenge viewers to think critically about identity, culture, and conflict.

Rene Matić: Navigating Identity

At just 28, Rene Matić from Peterborough is the second-youngest nominee in Turner Prize history. Their work is a personal exploration of mixed-race identity and the complexities of belonging in contemporary Britain. Matić uses photographs, banners, and sound installations to articulate their experiences and grapples with the concept of Britishness.

As visitors enter Matić's gallery, they are greeted by a striking photo of a St George's flag displayed in a London pub window, symbolising the often-unwelcoming environment for those navigating their identity within the UK. The exhibition includes snapshots from various protests, personal moments, and significant cultural events, creating a tapestry of modern British life.

Key Themes in Matić's Work

Identity and Belonging: The artworks reflect the artist's struggles with their mixed-race heritage.
Political Commentary: The "No room for violence" flag critiques political hypocrisy.
Representation: The collection of black dolls prompts discussions on racial representation.

Exhibition curator Jill Iredale highlights how Matić's work encapsulates themes of peace, protest, and familial connections, merging personal narratives with broader societal issues. Critics have noted that Matić's work resonates with the spirit of Generation Z, capturing the essence of a generation grappling with identity in a complex world.

Zadie Xa: A Fantastical Experience

Canadian-Korean artist Zadie Xa invites viewers into an immersive experience that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. Upon entering her gallery, visitors are required to remove their shoes or don shoe coverings, creating a unique, sensory experience on the reflective gold floor. Xa's work features cloth patchwork paintings created using the traditional Korean bojagi technique, incorporating vibrant colours and intricate patterns.

The installation is enhanced by the presence of hanging shells and 665 small traditional bells, which add to the otherworldly atmosphere. The combination of visual elements, sounds of gongs and bird calls, and shimmering surfaces creates an environment that feels both enchanting and disorienting.

Elements of Xa's Installation

Patchwork Paintings: Inspired by Korean folk art, these pieces reflect cultural heritage.
Interactive Experience: The act of removing shoes adds a layer of engagement with the installation.
Sensory Elements: The soundscape enhances the immersive experience, transporting visitors to another realm.

Art critic Nancy Durrant describes Xa's exhibition as "the most sensually alluring" among the nominees, with its ability to evoke feelings of otherworldliness and exploration. Each element of Xa's work invites contemplation, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own experiences and cultural backgrounds.

Nnena Kalu: Vibrant Expressions

Nnena Kalu's gallery is a riot of colour and energy, featuring large sculptures and dynamic drawings that embody her artistic spirit. As a learning-disabled artist, Kalu has been involved with Action Space for over 25 years, where she has honed her craft. Her works, made during the pandemic, reflect a burst of creativity following a period of disruption.

The sculptures, wrapped in colourful materials like ribbons and VHS tape, take on whimsical, animalistic forms, while the accompanying drawings showcase swirling patterns that evoke movement and chaos. Kalu's approach to art is deeply expressive, encapsulating her experiences and emotions through vibrant visual language.

Highlights of Kalu's Art

Mixed Media Sculptures: The sculptures reflect a sense of playfulness and energy.
Dynamic Drawings: The drawings feature repetitive patterns that mirror the sculptures' forms.
Artistic Journey: Kalu's work is rooted in her personal narrative, showcasing resilience and creativity.

Critics have praised Kalu's ability to convey rhythm and purpose in her work. The Guardian's Adrian Searle remarked on the compelling nature of her drawings, highlighting the artist's talent and potential. Kalu's contributions to the Turner Prize exhibition demonstrate the importance of diverse voices in contemporary art.

Mohammed Sami: The Weight of Conflict

Baghdad-born artist Mohammed Sami brings a stark perspective on the realities of conflict through his powerful paintings. Having begun his career with portraits of Saddam Hussein, Sami's work now delves into the aftermath of destruction, capturing the haunting essence of war-torn landscapes. His notable piece, "The Hunter's Return," showcases a desolate war zone, complete with toppled trees and a fiery sky.

Sami's paintings provide a visceral experience, inviting viewers to step into the scene and confront the emotional weight of conflict. The absence of human figures in his works amplifies the sense of desolation and invites reflection on the broader implications of war.

Key Aspects of Sami's Art

Contemporary History: His artwork comments on the ongoing nature of conflict in modern times.
Visceral Imagery: Large canvases evoke strong emotional responses through their striking visuals.
Accessibility: The low hanging of his paintings encourages viewer interaction and immersion.

Critics have lauded Sami for his ability to create tension and unease through his art. The Sunday Times' Waldemar Januszczak noted the gripping nature of Sami's exhibition, which challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about war and its consequences. Sami's work stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of conflict on individuals and societies.

The Turner Prize Exhibition: A Cultural Reflection

The Turner Prize exhibition at Cartwright Hall in Bradford serves as a platform for these four artists to showcase their unique perspectives on contemporary issues. From identity and belonging to the haunting realities of conflict, each installation invites viewers to engage with the complexities of modern life. The exhibition runs until 22 February, offering a chance to experience these thought-provoking works in person.

Conclusion

The Turner Prize continues to evolve, reflecting the diverse voices and experiences of contemporary artists. As we engage with the works of Nnena Kalu, Mohammed Sami, Zadie Xa, and Rene Matić, we are prompted to consider the intricate narratives that shape our understanding of identity, society, and conflict. Each artist's contribution not only enriches the cultural landscape but also challenges us to think critically about our own experiences and perspectives.

FAQs

What is the Turner Prize?

The Turner Prize is an annual contemporary art award in the UK, recognising outstanding artists and their contributions to the art world. It is awarded to a British artist under 50 for an outstanding exhibition or presentation of their work.

Where is the Turner Prize exhibition being held this year?

This year's Turner Prize exhibition is being held at Cartwright Hall in Bradford, which is the current UK City of Culture.

When will the winner of the Turner Prize be announced?

The winner of the Turner Prize will be announced on 9 December 2023, following the exhibition's opening on 4 November.

Who are the nominees for this year's Turner Prize?

The nominees for this year's Turner Prize are Nnena Kalu, Mohammed Sami, Zadie Xa, and Rene Matić, each showcasing their unique artistic styles and themes in the exhibition.

How long will the Turner Prize exhibition run?

The Turner Prize exhibition will run until 22 February 2024, allowing visitors ample time to experience the works of the nominated artists.