Nnena Kalu Wins 2025 Turner Prize, Becoming First Artist with Learning Disability to Receive Award

Nnena Kalu was awarded the 2025 Turner Prize during a ceremony held in Bradford. The artist, originally from Glasgow, is known for her elaborate hanging sculptures crafted from recycled materials. She received the nomination for her work Hanging Sculpture 1-10, which was featured at Manifesta 15 in Barcelona. Additionally, Kalu showcased Drawing 21 (2021) in a group exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool. The jury commended her "bold and compelling work." The Turner Prize exhibition commenced at Cartwright Hall in September 2025, drawing 34,000 attendees and continuing until 22 February 2026. Other shortlisted artists included Rene Matić, Zadia Xa, and Mohammad Sami. The prize, established in 1984, has honored notable figures like Damien Hirst and Lubaina Himid, with the award presented at Bradford Grammar School.