Kapwani Kiwanga named winner of Canada’s largest annual art award

Kapwani Kiwanga is the winner of the 2018 Sobey Art Award, Canada’s most prestigious prize given annually to artists aged 40 or younger. Kiwanga’s work often deals with what she calls ‘multiplicities’, exploring subjects including independent African nationhood, gift-giving as a diplomatic activity and astronomy. Kiwanga was praised by the award jury for the ‘urgency of her research and the emotive, formal qualities of the artworks that result’ – with her practice being described as ’necessary at this time’. An exhibition of work by Kiwanga and the other shortlisted finalists is currently on view at the National Gallery of Canada (until 10 February).