Using the means of applied arts and decoration, Jim Drain works with objects whose sculptural values and extension in space explore and inventively enrich the potential of 20th-century abstract sculpture. With his knitted, rampantly proliferating configurations draped in strings of pearls, which can be read both as ornament and drawing suspended in space, Jim Drain exploits the feminist mode of rebellion against the macho attitudes flaunted by the sculpting guild, packaging it in a psychedelic narrative charged with personal myth. The resulting sculptures confront viewers with a startling, unprecedented repertoire of forms, characterised by unbridled imagination and humour.

In addition to the cash prize, Baloise acquires a group of works by the award winners and donates them to two important European museums. The work of Jim Drain was presented to the collection of the Hamburger Kunsthalle.

Greene Naftali Gallery, New York

Jury members:
Cristina Bechtler, INK TREE EDITIONS, Küsnacht; Edelbert Koeb, Director, Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig, Vienna; Christoph Heinrich, Director of the Galerie der Gegenwart, Hamburger Kunsthalle; James Lingwood, ARTANGEL, London and Martin Schwander, Fine Art Advisor of Baloise, Chairman of the jury.