In a ceremony at the Tyler School of Art last night, Ryan Trecartin won the inaugural edition of the $150,000 Wolgin Prize, edging out Michael Rakowitz and Sanford Biggers.

Accepting the honor, the 28-year-old Trecartin noted that the award and his recent experiences visiting classes at the Tyler School will “change [his] practice” as he continues to produce work. He also thanked his family, friends, and his New York gallerist Elizabeth Dee, whom he described as “part of the production team.”

Trecartin’s work, which often takes the form of manic installations featuring hallucinogenic videos, has been shown at the 2006 Whitney Biennial, the J. Paul Getty Museum, the New Museum, and the Saatchi Gallery. He is no stranger to the winner’s platform, having won a Pew Fellowship in the Arts earlier this year.

The annual Wolgin Prize was established by Philadelphia philanthropist Jack Wolgin to honor “an emerging artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries and exemplifies the highest level of artistic excellence.” It is decided by a jury of art world professionals and administered by Temple Universitys Tyler School of Art.

An exhibition featuring the work of the three finalists has been extended through Nov. 14 at the school. Trecartin will present a lecture at the Tyler School this afternoon, which will be available live on the Internet.