We received a talk for our professional development today about the Artes Mundi 8 Prize, which consisted of a brief presentation of all the shortlisted artists this year, who are; Anna Boghiguian (Canada/Egypt), Bouchra Khalili (Morocco/France), Otobong Nkanga (Nigeria/Belgium), Trevor Paglen (USA), and Apichatpong Weerasethakul (Thailand).
The work in the exhibition spans four continents and a varied range of artistic practices. Anna Boghiguian’s politically charged and nuanced drawings, paintings, cut-outs and installations survey globalism and intricate economies of power. Through her use of film, Bouchra Khalili’s deftly examines of resistance, minorities and identity, often in collaboration with her subjects. Otobong Nkanga’s intricate and beguiling tapestries, installations and use of minerals and organic material interrogate our fast-changing relationship with the land and colonial legacies. Trevor Paglen’s unique use of photography, scientific collaboration and journalism offer the viewer a chance to see the unseen, investigating shadowy government practices, surveillance and hidden structures of authority, while Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s meditative and dreamlike films explore the ghosts of Thailand’s past, liminal spaces of memory and identity and shared consciousness and belonging.
This opened my eyes to what I could potentially apply for locally here in Cardiff when I finish my degree show, especially considering how large the prize is – £40,000 – which is a fantastic amount. I was also shocked to hear that not many people know about it because people usually only associate a large art prize with the Turner Prize. I will be visiting the National Museum to have an idea of the work they shortlisted and gain ideas for my future work.
saratrouble 