Chosen from over 60 artists based in the Liverpool City Region the shortlist represents the best and most cutting-edge contemporary art being produced in the region. Each artist has exhibited within the last year and is connected to Liverpool’s leading studio groups.

The panel of expert judges, tasked with picking the winner of this year’s prize includes: Laura Davis, Arts Editor at the Liverpool Daily Post, Paul Domela, Curator of Liverpool Biennial, Moira Lindsay (Curator from The Victoria Gallery and Museum),  David Jacques (Liverpool Art Prize 2010 winner). and Paul Hyland a representative from Duncan Sheard Glass, one of the exhibition’s sponsors.

Paul Domela of Liverpool Biennial said:

The Liverpool Art Prize sheds light on the vitality of work made in Liverpool and is a great nudge of confidence to the artists that are shortlisted. In its short history the Liverpool Art Prize has made its mark by honouring the work of three significant artists: Imogen Stidworthy, Al and Al and David Jacques. Apart from the work that they did to win the prize, it has been a pleasure to how they have flourished since. I wish the shortlisted artists success with the exhibition. I hope many people will come to see it. I was not part of the selection process so I am as curious as the next person to see the work the artists produce for the show. I am looking forward to it.'

The winner of this year’s Liverpool Art Prize will be awarded £2000 and the prize will be judged solely on the work they exhibit at Metal from Friday 6 May to Saturday 11 June. The exhibition will be curated by Metal Project Manager, Jenny Porter.

The winning artists will also be given the opportunity to show their work at the Walker Art Gallery, where last year’s prize winner David Jacques is currently exhibiting ‘The Irlam House Bequest’ which is currently running at the Walker and ends on Sun 3 April.

There is also a £1000 People’s Choice Award chosen by the public voting at the gallery. Last year’s winner was painter James Quin.

Ian Jackson, Director of Artinliverpool.com said:

“We are delighted to be presenting the Liverpool Art Prize again in partnership with METAL and with another excellent short list of four local artists. We are especially pleased that despite the current difficult economic climate we are continuing to promote and support artists with the help of our sponsors and supporters. We are looking forward to this; the fourth, annual exhibition which we hope will inspire artists and public alike.”

Artinliverpool.com founded the Liverpool Art Prize in early 2008, it was one of the first major visual art events in the Capital of Culture year. The Art Prize is now a firmly established part of Liverpool’s annual arts diary, acknowledging the outstanding achievements of local artists and their contribution to contemporary art. It aims to promote national awareness and discussion of contemporary art in the city and to support individual artists in developing their practices. . This year the exhibition coincides with the University and HE colleges degree shows as well as the re-opening of the Open Eye gallery and the Look International Photography Festival.

Friday 6 May – Saturday 11 June

Metal at Edge Hill Station, Tunnel Road, Liverpool. L7 6ND

Opening Times - Tue – Fri 2pm – 6pm, Sat 12pm – 4pm

Free Entry

Press private view – Thu 5 May

Awards Ceremony – Wed 1 June