A British artist, who recreated a 40-metre replica of a one-man anti-war protest, has won one of the UK’s most prestigious art awards. Hollywood actor Dennis Hopper presented Mark Wallinger with the 2007 Turner Prize at a ceremony in Liverpool – the first time it has been held outside London. The prize is awarded for the best exhibition given by a British or Britain-based artist.

Wallinger said his exhibit “State Britain” was meant to highlight a dangerous erosion of civil liberties. Peace campaigner Brian Haw began his protest against US and UK policy in Iraq and Afghanistan in London’s Parliament Square 2001, and has fought numerous legal battles to be allowed to continue.

Every detail was copied for the exhibit, from Haw’s tarpaulin shelter and makeshift kitchen to hand-painted placards and posters. It was finally dismantled by police in 2006 after protests in the vicinity of the Houses of Parliament were outlawed.

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