The Turner Prize 2005 has been awarded to Simon Starling, it was announced at Tate Britain this evening. The £25,000 prize, sponsored by the makers of Gordon’s gin, was presented by Culture Minister David Lammy. With Gordon’s support this year’s prize fund is £40,000 with £25,000 going to the winner and £5,000 each for the other shortlisted artists. The event was broadcast live on Channel 4.
Simon Starling was shortlisted for his exhibitions at The Modern Institute, Glasgow and the Fundació Joan Miró, Barcelona. He transforms and reframes existing objects using a rigorous process of research to develop his sculptural installations. The jury admired his unique ability to create poetic narratives which draw together a wide range of cultural, political and historical references.
The jury stressed the strength of the exhibition at Tate Britain and wished to record their admiration for the outstanding presentations produced by all four artists.