In a challenging year of isolation and uncertainty, the visual arts offered an invaluable source of comfort, distraction and joy. From spiritual connections to community activism and a welcome dose of humour, these are the standout artists of 2020.
Chila Kumari Singh Burman
'I think this was the work that we all needed at the end of this year! And that’s what I love about it. In a year when access to art has been so restricted and virtual, Burman’s phantasmagoria of light, that coincided with Diwali, was so generous and uplifting. It’s stunning. It is wonderful to see an artist that is able to convey the complexity and multilayered-ness of their inspirations (Hindu mythology, Bollywood, autobiography and colonial histories) and is still able to create a work that is a magical celebration of her culture. I’m totally in awe of her scope, vision and glittering boldness.'
—Lindsey Mendick, British artist working with sculpture and ceramics