The recognition of Rene Matić, a queer, working-class individual of color, as the recipient of the Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation prize is undeniably a positive development. However, the current display at the Photographers’ Gallery, a scaled-down representation of their exhibition “As Opposed to the Truth,” unfortunately resembles a student’s poorly curated Tumblr feed rather than a compelling photographic presentation.
At 29, Matić has made history as the youngest artist to secure the £30,000 Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation prize. This nomination follows their equally groundbreaking status as the youngest artist ever nominated for the Turner Prize last year. Their work was recognized for the solo exhibition “As Opposed to the Truth” at CCA Berlin.
There are commendable aspects to Matić’s artistic practice that deserve appreciation. Their dedication to questioning the established boundaries of what is considered significant in both life and art, and their exploration of what constitutes “Britishness,” are particularly noteworthy. Matić’s 2022 piece, “Upon This Rock,” a photographic installation and film delving into their father Paul’s connection to the skinhead movement, felt truly innovative in both its conceptual approach and material execution. This work, which was exhibited in Berlin but is not part of the London display, demonstrated a powerful exploration of masculinity and fatherhood as formative elements of national identity. The artist’s endeavor to weave new narratives into the fabric of British history felt both original and stimulating.