Turner Prize 2022 Winner: Hackney Windrush Art Commission – Public Art Installations

Following consultation with residents, Hackney Council commissioned Veronica Ryan OBE and Thomas J Price to create two public artworks to recognise and celebrate the Windrush Generation. The sculptures recognise the significant contribution the generation has made to life in Hackney and the UK and symbolise the ongoing commitment from the borough to provide refuge and welcome to worldwide migrants.

Situated in Hackney’s recently refurbished Narrow Way Square, renowned artist Veronica Ryan’s wonderful sculptures comprise a collection of three bronze and marble fruits – a Breadfruit, a Custard Apple and a Soursop.  Since their installation in October 2021, the trio of fruits have proved a fantastic addition to the historic square,  encouraging its use and engaging the public. The installation has achieved international recognition and has been awarded the 2022 Turner Prize, one of the most prestigious awards for visual arts in the world.

The second project comprises two large-scale bronze sculptures, which will be placed in the centre of Hackney, outside the Town Hall.  Thomas J Price’s larger than life physical representation of people from the African Caribbean diaspora will be a bold celebration of the legacy and cultural influence of the Windrush Generation, while also seeking to address the disproportionate lack of statues representing black citizens in the UK.

Working in collaboration with Create London and Hawkin Brown Architects, Firstplan secured planning permission for both installations successfully demonstrating that the contemporary artworks represent positive additions to the borough, whilst also preserving the nature and significance of the respective Conservation Areas and Grade I and II* listed buildings in the vicinity.