Image by Contemporary Art Society
The theme of our new collection – to be unveiled next month – is the blending of cultures, and specifically uses Scottish and Indian design elements for their strong symbolism and aesthetic appeal. These two countries also both epitomise a history and heritage that have defined their populations over the centuries.
The assimilation of people from different backgrounds has never been more topical than it is currently, and it was no surprise to us that the 2024 Turner Prize was awarded to Jasleen Kaur’s Alter Altar.
The youngest of the shortlisted artists, Kaur grew up in Glasgow’s Sikh community and, like our founder, Richa Walia, possesses something of a dual identity. They also both express this in joyful creations that tell stories and reflect harmony.
Alter Altar is a collection of pieces that imaginatively display elements from different cultures and religions and, most significantly (and autobiographically), Scottish icons such as Irn Bru, alongside salvaged family photos and political flyers, reminiscent of Kaur’s Glaswegian youth. The aesthetic has a playful, celebratory tone, with an accompanying soundscape featuring worship bells, Islamic and Indian music, and pop records.
Centre stage at Kaur’s show is Sociomobile, a red Ford Escort similar to her father’s first car, following his emigration from Delhi to Glasgow. The car also represents the automotive industry, and is draped in a giant, hand-crocheted doily, representing textiles; these two industries were instrumental in attracting skilled workers from South Asia to address Britain’s labour shortage.
If you would like to see the work of the Turner Prize shortlisted artists, you will need to hurry: the show at Tate Britain finishes this Sunday, 16 February.
Northwest 35’s East & West Coalesce designs will be presented on our social media platforms – be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn – with the full reveal during London Design Week next month.
