Lubaina Himid, a visionary artist known for her profound exploration of themes such as colonialism, slavery, identity, and gender, has been awarded the prestigious Maria Lassnig Prize. This mid-career artist award, now in its fourth edition, celebrates Himid’s remarkable contributions to contemporary art and serves as a testament to her exceptional talent and cultural significance.
The Maria Lassnig Foundation established the Maria Lassnig Prize to honor mid-career artists and support their breakthroughs in the art world. Maria Lassnig, an Austrian artist who gained recognition later in life, conceived the idea before her passing in 2014. The prize aims to provide greater visibility and recognition to artists who are yet to receive widespread acclaim.
Each edition of the prize is held in collaboration with a different institution, and for the 2023 edition, the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art in Beijing serves as the collaborating institution. This partnership emphasizes the global impact of the award and highlights the significance of Lubaina Himid’s upcoming exhibition at the UCCA Center for Contemporary Art.
Born in Zanzibar in 1954,the artist has been at the forefront of contemporary art since the 1980s. Her work explores the complexities of history, culture, and social issues, often challenging the narratives surrounding colonialism, slavery, and the intersectionality of identity. Himid’s thought-provoking and visually striking artworks have made her one of the most important voices in global contemporary art.
In 2017, Lubaina Himid made history by becoming the first Black woman to win the prestigious Turner Prize, a renowned accolade that recognizes outstanding contributions to British contemporary art. This groundbreaking achievement solidified her position as a trailblazer and further elevated her artistic career.
Lubaina Himid’s artistic endeavors extend beyond her practice as a visual artist. She is also an accomplished curator and an Emeritus Professor of contemporary art at the University of Central Lancashire. Throughout her career, Himid has exhibited extensively in the United Kingdom and internationally, showcasing her thought-provoking artworks and engaging in critical conversations about history, identity, and social justice.
Himid’s contributions to the art world have not gone unnoticed. She was elected as a Royal Academician, an esteemed title that recognizes her significant impact on the field of art. In 2018, she was honored with a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for her remarkable contributions to the arts.
Lubaina Himid’s bold and innovative approach to art continues to resonate globally, evoking conversations and reflections on important social issues. As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, Lubaina Himid’s impact on the art world and on broader cultural conversations is set to grow even further.