The final shortlist consisted of four artists: Richard Forster, Clare Charnley, Paul Rooney and Imogen Stidworthy.
[5] Sheffield-based Haroon Mirza was the winner of the 4th Northern Art Prize for his sculpture Anthemoessa inspired by the sirenum scopuli and incorporating footage of Cat Stevens and Edward Armitage's 1888 painting, The Siren.
Judge, Mark Lawson, described his work as, "Mirza combines old and new technology to create multi-layered installations which offer detailed examination and reflect the complexity of the modern world...”.
[8] Merseyside-based Leo Fitzmaurice was the winner of the 5th Northern Art Prize;[1] he was nominated by Kate Farrell, curator of Special Exhibitions at The Lowry.
[9] Other three shortlisted artists were: Northumberland-based James Hugonin, who was tipped as the winner by the Guardian's critic Alfred Hickling;[10] Richard Rigg, who won 44% of the popular vote; and sculptor Liadin Cooke.
The shortlisted artists exhibited their work at the Leeds Art Gallery from 28 March 2013 until 16 June 2013, with Margaret Harrison being announced the winner on 23 May 2013.