Turner Contemporary Appoints Yinka Ilori as Artist in Residence in King's Hill, Kent

On the appointment, Yinka Ilori said: “Visiting the site in Kings Hill was a breath of fresh air; standing on top of the Amphitheatre and looking out at the whole of Kent was magical. I was drawn to this project and the site in Kings Hill because it’s full of history. I want to explore how we remember and celebrate that history and bring a new story that’s relevant to now and the people that live and work there! This is my first experience as an artist in residence, and it’s super exciting to be able to connect with new people and new ideas. I am looking forward to learning new things, understanding new cultures and ways of thinking. With the commission as a focal point, I’m really excited for people from further afield to come to know Kent for the beautiful place that it is.”

On Ilori’s appointment, Victoria Pomery, Director of Turner Contemporary said:

“Turner Contemporary was inspired by Yinka Ilori’s proposal which showed a sensitivity to the history of the site whilst imagining a new future. He left room for the work to evolve through his interaction with the Kings Hill community and students from UCA.”

This commission comes in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic which has highlighted the extraordinary opportunities provided by open green spaces. Traditionally, parks have been venues for social interactions, community meetings and moments of joy and play.