As Britain gets ready to award its prestigious art prize to one lucky contender, the Tate Britain is preparing its annual exhibition to demonstrate the talents of the shortlisters.

The Turner Prize is a contemporary art award which was set up in 1984 to celebrate new developments in the art world. It is awarded to an up-and coming British artist under the age of fifty every year based on presentation of their work within a 12 month period. Four artists are shortlisted each year and an exhibition is dedicated to their work at Tate Britain.

The four candidates are judged by an independent jury that changes annually. The Turner Prize plays a significant role in art society and often sparks debate about visual art, contributing to the growing interest in British contemporary art.

The shortlist was announced back in May, where it was revealed that Dexter Dalwood, Angela de la Cruz, Susan Philipsz and The Otolith Group will compete for the award. Dexter Dalwood creates paintings that draw on art history and significant moments in our culture, something that was demonstrated in his depiction of the Charles Manson Murders of the 1960s. De la Cruz distinguishes herself by tearing and folding her paintings before displaying them in doorways and corners of the gallery floor. The Otolith Group, consisting of Anjalika Sagar and Kodwo Eshun, have worked on many projects including a film which looks at the extreme conditions that sweatshop workers are forced to work in.  While Susan Philipsz is known for recording herself singing covers of famous songs by artists such as Nirvana and Radiohead, and playing them in public venues like supermarkets and bus stations.

These diverse artists will be exhibiting their work from 5^th October 2010 – 2^nd January 2011 at the Tate Britain, before the winner of the Turner Prize is announced in a televised event on 6^th December 2010.

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