The Turner Prize 2004 has been awarded to Jeremy Deller, it was announced at Tate Britain this evening. The £25,000 prize, sponsored for the first time in a three-year partnership with Gordon’s gin, was presented by broadcaster and Tate Trustee Jon Snow. With Gordon’s support this year’s prize fund has been increased to £40,000 with £5,000 each being awarded to the other shortlisted artists. The prize ceremony was broadcast live on
Channel 4.
Jeremy Deller was shortlisted for Memory Bucket, a mixed-media installation at ArtPace, San Antonio, documenting his travels through the state of Texas. In awarding Deller the prize the jury praised his generosity of spirit across a succession of projects which engage with social and cultural contexts and celebrate the creativity of individuals.
The jury stressed the strength of the exhibition at Tate Britain and wished to record their respect for the outstanding presentations produced by all four artists.