The Glaswegian born artist Nnena Kalu has become the first person with a learning disability to win the Turner Prize, one of the most coveted and prestigious awards in the international art world.
Known for her highly colourful sculptures and drawings which were described as "bold and compelling with a beautiful intricacy to them" by the chair of the judging panel and Tate Britain director Alex Farquharson.
Over recent years, Kalu, who's 59 and has limited verbal communication, has been building a global reputation for much of her work which consists of hanging cocoon-like shapes covered in reams of recycled and repurposed materials ranging from parcel tape, cling film, fabric and rope.
Kalu was nominated for her presentation as part of ‘Conversations’ at the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool and ‘Hanging Sculpture 1 to 10’ at Manifesta 15, Barcelona.
Through repetition of gestures or motions, also seen in her vortex drawings, Kalu’s practice brings together a “unique command of material, colour and gesture and her highly attuned responses to architectural space.”
As winner she takes home £25,000 (€28,596) with the other shortlisted artists each being awarded £10,000 (€11,438)
This year's shortlisted artists displayed a range of mixed media and disciplines from traditional practices such as painting to installations.
An exhibition of their work is currently on at the Cartwright Hall Art Gallery in Bradford until 22 February 2026 as part of the Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture celebrations.
