Eyes on the prize: Liverpool Art Prize 2012 shortlist announced

After Markus Soukup’s victory at last year’s prestigious Liverpool Art Prize, we were curious to see who would be nominated this year. It’s always an unpredictable and wonderfully varied set of artists.

Today (14th December) the lucky foursome were officially announced, and there’s a really interesting spectrum of arts and disciplines represented.

So who’s got their eyes on the prize? Wallasey-based Alan Dunn works primarily with sound art, touching on themes like the Mersey Tunnels. Tomo (pictured) brings together street art and contemporary illustration in a glorious, humourous clash. The Drawing Paper is actually a physical print product, helmed by Jon Barraclough and Mike Carney, showcasing some fantastic drawing and mark-making. And Robyn Woolston works with installation, moving image and photography, with a keen eye on ecology and the architecture of nature.

They cover a pretty wide-ranging bunch of practises, and this year’s shortlist is yet again a reflection of a city that’s consistently creative, innovative and boundary-pushing. It might not have a megabucks budget like the Turner Prize, but it’s no less important to recognise these types of artists doing amazing things locally.

Art fans can see the nominated work on display at the excellent Metal gallery from April ’til June, with the big winner (and the ever-popular ‘People’s Choice’ accolade) being announced at the end of May.

Liverpool Art Prize 2012
Fri 27 April – Sat 9 June
Metal, Edge Hill Station, Liverpool
Free
www.liverpoolartprize.com