Allison Katz Wins 2023 Gershon Iskowitz Prize, Bringing Celebrated Artist’s Work to AGO
TORONTO — The Gershon Iskowitz Foundation, in partnership with the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), has named Montreal-born, UK-based artist Allison Katz as the recipient of the 2023 Gershon Iskowitz Prize at the AGO. The prestigious award, which includes a $75,000 cash prize and a solo exhibition at the AGO, is presented annually to an artist who has made a significant impact on the visual arts in Canada.
Katz, known internationally for her cerebral and layered approach to painting, transforms everyday objects into visually rich and allusive works. Her practice defies conventional painterly categories, blending realism with the fantastic while incorporating wordplay, historical references, and autobiographical elements. She gained widespread acclaim for her 2022 presentation at the 59th Venice Biennale and her 2024 dual role as artist and curator for an expansive group exhibition at the Aspen Art Museum.
Jurors for this year’s award included Tim Whiten, recipient of the 2022 Gershon Iskowitz Prize; November Paynter, Artistic Director and Chief Curator of the Lassonde Art Trail Foundation; and two directors of the Iskowitz Foundation, collector Jay Smith and AGO Director and CEO Stephan Jost.
According to Jay Smith, Katz’s selection is both a recognition of her achievements and an opportunity to reintroduce her work to Canadian audiences. “Katz has received widespread critical recognition, yet her achievements in painting have yet to be celebrated significantly in Canada. So, while it may seem an unusual gesture for the Gershon Iskowitz Prize to select an artist to bring ‘home,’ it also feels extremely timely,” Smith said.
Allison Katz, represented by Hauser & Wirth, Antenna Space, Gió Marconi, and dépendance, will have her work featured in an intimate installation at the AGO this summer. More details on the exhibition will be announced in the coming months.
