Laurie Anderson, Arthur Jafa, and Barbara Kruger Lead 2026 Art Basel Awards

Art Basel has officially announced the medalists for the 2026 Art Basel Awards, marking the sophomore year of the ambitious initiative. The 2026 cohort represents an interconnected and global field of creatives, reflecting how contemporary art is produced and experienced today.  

The awards recognize a wide array of talent, honoring 15 artists across three distinct categories, while also celebrating patrons, institutions, curators, allies, and storytellers.  

Established and Emerging Artists

The Established Artist category highlights figures who are redefining contemporary art and upending traditional canons. The 2026 medalists in this category include Maria Magdalena Campos-Pons , Arthur Jafa , Theaster Gates, Rirkrit Tiravanija , and Apichatpong Weerasethakul.  

The Emerging Artist category recognizes rising voices who frequently draw on cultural heritage and local identity. The six medalists in this group include Precious Okoyomon , Farah Al Qasimi , Aziza Kadyri , and Carla Gueye.  

Icons and Cross-Disciplinary Creators

Pioneers who have created their own distinct languages and redefined their respective fields were also celebrated.  

• Icons: This category honors Barbara Kruger and Howardena Pindell.  

• Cross Disciplinary Creators: Experimental music legend Laurie Anderson and architect Sumayya Vally were recognized for their influence beyond traditional art spaces.  

  
  

Patrons, Curators, and Institutions

When it comes to shaping how art is seen and experienced, homage is paid to a host of innovators:  

• Patron: Mercedes Vilardell was recognized for her work in increasing museum collecting and visibility for African art.  

• Curator: Diana Campbell was honored for bringing art from underrepresented regions into the global spotlight.  

• Institutions: The Brick in Los Angeles and the Diriyah Biennale Foundation in Saudi Arabia were awarded for their pioneering cultural contributions.  

• Media and Storyteller: Renowned critic Siddhartha Mitter was celebrated for his storytelling and ongoing curatorial work.  

  
  

Upcoming Celebrations

The 2026 Art Basel Awards medalists will be celebrated at an event at Basel's historic Rathaus during the Swiss edition of the fair. The awardees will be officially presented with the Art Basel Awards trophy—designed by Jacques Herzog in collaboration with Glassworks Matteo Gonet—at Art Basel Miami Beach in December. The awards are presented in partnership with BOSS.  

By ML Staff. Photos: Art Basel