Turner Prize 2026 in Middlesbrough hailed as ‘major coup’

The announcement that the Turner Prize is to be held in Middlesbrough has been hailed as a “major coup”.

The award, which is given to a British visual artist and is organised by Tate, will be held at the Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art (Mima), which is part of Teesside University.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said it would bring investment and visitors to the area.

The prize helped launch the careers of internationally renowned artists such as Damien Hirst, Steve McQueen and Grayson Perry.

The exhibition of work by the four shortlisted artists for the prize will open in autumn 2026 at MIMA, with the announcement of the winner following in December.

A programme of events connected to the awards is being planned by the Tees Valley Combined Authority, MIMA and Teesside University.

“Hosting the Turner Prize exemplifies our ambition and commitment to seeing art and culture thrive in the Tees Valley, the UK and internationally,” Prof Paul Croney, chief executive of Teesside University, said.

For the past three years, Middlesbrough has been working towards a programme to become known as the most creative town in the UK with a £4.25m fund by Arts Council England.

Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “We’ve been working hard on a mission to be the most creative town and welcoming new visitors will help us change perceptions and highlight the brilliant things that happen here every day.”

Tees valley Mayor Ben Houchen said it was a “major coup” with the arts sector playing an “important role in driving economic growth”.