An inspiring celebration of innovation and craftsmanship, honoring five rising artists who embody Jaguar’s “Copy Nothing” philosophy.
Honoring Bold New Voices in Art
Jaguar and the Royal College of Art (RCA) joined forces to present the first-ever Jaguar Arts Awards, a new platform recognizing exceptional emerging talent in fine and applied arts. Drawing from Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons’ mantra “Copy Nothing,” the award challenges young artists to create original works that embody authenticity and innovation.
This year’s program honored five standout artists, each receiving a bursary to support their post-graduate development. Among them, sculptor and designer Jobe Burns claimed the Gerry McGovern Award for his project Intimate Conversation, a deeply expressive piece that bridges materiality, motion, and meaning.
Jobe Burns’ “Intimate Conversation” Takes Center Stage
Intimate Conversation comprises two sculptural forms locked in dialogue, connected by rusted rebar salvaged from the RCA’s construction site. Coated in layers of automotive candy paint, the work radiates a saturated orange-red palette that shifts and refracts light to reveal dynamic depth — an intentional nod to Jaguar’s masterful use of color and finish.
Professor Gerry McGovern OBE, JLR’s Chief Creative Officer, praised Burns’ vision: “Jobe’s work embraced the philosophy of evoking emotion through storytelling. His use of color and modernist form reflects Jaguar’s spirit — one rooted in originality and craftsmanship.”
Recognizing Emerging Innovators
Alongside Burns, four additional RCA artists were honored for their creativity and conceptual strength. Yvann Zahui received the Jaguar Award for Auto-Portraits, a photographic series exploring identity and mobility. Emma Goring was recognized for Modern Tradition, Ali Bartlett for Illuminated Silence, and Annabel MacIver for Colour Wheel.
Each project reflected a unique interpretation of Jaguar’s ethos, combining imagination with material exploration. Together, these artists represent the next generation of boundary-pushing creators shaping the future of art and design.
