V&A launches Islamic art and design prize
The Victoria & Albert Museum today launches a new £25 000 art and design prize for Islamic-influenced work.
The V&A hopes that the biennial Jameel Prize will raise awareness of Islamic artistic heritage and contemporary output, and contribute to debate about Islamic culture.
Nine artists and designers have made it on to the shortlist for the inaugural award, which received more than 100 nominations.
The shortlisted include Moroccan-born artist Hassan Hajjaj, for his subversive work that places the logos of major Western brands on traditional Islamic items.
A panel of judges led by V&A director Mark Jones also shortlisted Iranian-born, Netherlands-based graphic designer Reza Abedini’s selection of five caligraphic posters promoting exhibitions and art festivals.
Other shortlisted entries include hand-crafted jewellery by Turkish designer Sevan Biçakçi and shadow puppets by Iranian-born, US-based artist Afruz Amighi.
The 2009 Jameel Prize winner will be announced on 7 July.
All shortlisted entries will go on display in a new temporary gallery at the V&A from 7 July to 13 September.