Ashes (2002-2015), a double video projection, tells the story of a young Caribbean man known by this name. On one screen we see a film portrait of him, young and handsome, standing on the prow of a boat.

The other side of this screen shows the building of Ashes' tomb after he has been murdered by drug dealers on the island. Life, death, despair and hope are presented by McQueen in this perfectly crafted elegy. An important new addition to the Whitworth's collection, the showing of Ashes will be the cornerstone of a new programme of engagement work with young men in Manchester.

The acquisition has been made possible by the Art Fund, the Arts Council England / Victoria and Albert Museum Purchase Grant Fund, Friends of the Whitworth and John Williams.