The inaugural Cass Art Prize 2024 celebrated creativity, diversity, and resilience in British art. Among the winners, Ruqaiya Asim, a blind art student from Dagenham, captured hearts by winning the People’s Choice Award for her piece Communication With My Guide Dog.
A Powerful Message Through Art
Ruqaiya Asim’s artwork highlights the bond she shares with her guide dog, Bertie. Her piece combines tactile elements like Bertie’s paw prints and a Braille square, encouraging sighted visitors to experience the inaccessibility often faced by disabled artists.
Asim added Braille descriptions and a QR code leading to an audio guide, making her display at Copeland Gallery, London, as inclusive as possible. “My piece is about trust and the connection I have with Bertie,” Asim shared.
Her win demonstrates the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in the art world, themes she continues to champion through her work.
Celebrating British Artistic Talent
The Cass Art Prize featured exceptional works from artists across the UK and Ireland. From refugee camp-inspired pieces to mental health unit creations, the shortlist celebrated diversity and innovation in British art.
While Ruqaiya Asim won the People’s Choice Award, Reuben Murray took home the Main Prize for Ada, a portrait celebrating Jamaican Maroon heritage. Other categories included the Students Award, Special Judge’s Award, and several medium-specific awards like Michael Harding for Oil Painting and Liquitex for Acrylic.
Cass Art’s Legacy of Supporting Artists
The Cass family has supported artists for over 120 years, championing pioneers like Monet and Van Gogh. The Cass Art Prize continues this tradition, providing opportunities for emerging and established artists alike.
Mark Cass, CEO and Founder of Cass Art, stated, “The Cass Art Prize is a celebration of the incredible talent across the UK and Ireland. This inaugural exhibition marks what would have been my father’s 100th birthday, continuing our family’s legacy in the art world.”
Transforming Art with Accessibility and Inclusivity
Ruqaiya Asim’s success is a reminder that art knows no boundaries. Her innovative approach not only won the hearts of voters but also sparked conversations about accessibility in creative spaces.
Visit the Cass Art Prize exhibition at Copeland Gallery to explore the extraordinary works of talented artists and be inspired by their stories.
