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Celebrated Grenadian-British artist Denzil Forrester has been awarded the Robson Orr TenTen Award 2024 by the Government Art Collection, recognising his outstanding contribution to the world of contemporary British art. The unveiling of his new work, Altar, at the Department of Culture, Media and Sport by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, marks another milestone in a distinguished career.

Forrester, known for his vibrant and dynamic depictions of the London reggae and dub nightclub scene from the early 1980s, brings his signature style to Altar, which was inspired by a reggae festival in Cornwall, where the artist now resides. His work is infused with the energy, rhythm, and colour of the clubs he frequented in his youth, capturing moments of movement and sound through bold colours and expressive brushstrokes.

Born in Grenada in 1956, Forrester moved to London in 1967, at the age of 10, where his interest in art flourished. He went on to pursue a BA in Fine Art from the Central School of Art and later an MA from the Royal College of Art. His experiences in London’s thriving music scene heavily influenced his artistic direction, and Forrester became known for sketching in nightclubs, translating the frenetic energy of the dance floor onto canvas. Legendary DJ Jah Shaka even became a recurring figure in his work, cementing Forrester’s connection to the pulse of the era.

Forrester’s work also delves into themes of social injustice and urban life, often drawing on his personal experiences as a black artist in Britain. His poignant piece, Three Wicked Men, for instance, explores the tragic death of his friend Winston Rose while in police custody, blending political commentary with artistic expression.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy highlighted Forrester’s impact on British art, stating:
“His vibrant and upbeat style uniquely captures the spirit of the UK’s music scene. The sale of his work will help raise funds for under-represented UK artists, fostering opportunity across the country.”

The Robson Orr TenTen Award, launched in 2018, commissions British artists annually to create a limited-edition print. 15 of the prints are displayed in government buildings globally, while 11 are sold to raise funds for emerging and under-represented artists, ensuring the continued support of new talent within the UK’s diverse artistic community.

Forrester’s recognition is part of a long list of achievements in his illustrious career, which has included receiving the Rome Scholarship in 1983, a Harkness Fellowship in New York, and an MBE in 2020 for his contributions to British art. His work has been exhibited internationally, including notable exhibitions such as “From Two Worlds” at the Whitechapel Art Gallery and “Dub Transition”, which spanned a decade of his paintings.

Now based in Cornwall, Forrester continues to create works that reflect the rich cultural duality of his Afro-Caribbean heritage and his life in Britain. His blend of musical, cultural, and artistic influences makes him one of the most compelling artists of his generation.

Photos: Jack Hall/PA Media Assignments

Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.