29 April 2009

A JMB flat has been nominated for the art world’s prestigious Turner Prize after it was converted into a crystal cavern.

Artist Roger Hiorns was nominated for the work – called Seizure – which turned one of the JMB’s flats in Harper Road into a series of rooms covered in blue crystals and opened to the public from August 2008 to November 2008.

The former residents of the Harper Road block moved out into new homes in Summer 2008 as the block was due to be demolished to make way for a new housing development.

However, delays in the new housing proposals meant that the JMB was able to allow Roger and art organisation ArtAngel, who supported the project, to use a couple of flats for the Seizure project. Ongoing delays mean that Roger and ArtAngel are hoping to reopen the crystal flat later in the year.

Leathermarket JMB Chair John Paul Maytum said:

“We were delighted to help Roger Hiorns and ArtAngel with this project and were glad to such a creative use found for one of the Harper Road flats while we are waiting for their redevelopment.

“It has been fascinating to see someone’s former home turned into a piece of striking art that has brought enjoyment and delight to thousands of visitors. We wish Roger and his team all the very best for the Turner Prize.”

Read more about Siezure and the nomination at BBC News, The Guardian or The Times.