Remembering Phyllida Barlow (1944 – 2023)
We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Phyllida Barlow.
The artist was best known for her large-scale sculptures and installations, often made from modest materials including cardboard or plywood. She rose to international prominence after retiring from teaching art at the Slade School of Fine Art.
She received a Paul Hamlyn Foundation Award for Artists in 2007, commenting:
“Without doubt, the Paul Hamlyn Foundation Award will be the most important event in relationship to my work, ever, and in my 40 years of making work. It will provide me with the financial support to continue to work in my studio – to develop the work without necessarily preparing for exhibitions – but just to make work.
“The subtlety of the award means a lot. It provides status at the highest professional level, but where the authenticity of each artist is prioritised and considered by professionals and fellow artists. Therefore, there is an understanding of the needs of the artist over and above any of the more public routes which artists might find themselves exposed to.”
We are gratified that our Award made a difference to her work and life. Our thoughts go out to her family and friends at this time.