Art Basel is getting ready to celebrate the art world with a new series of awards. The awards will honour artists, curators, museums, and patrons who make a difference in the art community. One of the important judges for these awards is Koyo Kouoh, a well-known figure in contemporary art.
Koyo Kouoh is the director of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art and has also been chosen as a curator for the 2026 Venice Biennale. Her experience and passion for art make her a perfect fit for this role. She will help select the best artists and institutions from a group of nominees, ensuring that those who truly deserve recognition are honoured.
The Art Basel Awards will feature 36 medals given to artists in three categories: emerging, established, and icons. This means that artists at different stages of their careers will be celebrated. Koyo Kouoh, along with other judges, will look for talent and creativity that stands out in the art world.
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What makes these awards special is that they focus on the everyday efforts of people in the art industry. Instead of just celebrating the best exhibitions, the awards will recognize the hard work of museums and the dedication of curators. Koyo Kouoh believes it is important to highlight those who contribute to the future of art.
The awards will be presented at Art Basel’s Swiss fair in June, and the winners will also be featured in a public leadership program. This program will include talks and panels where people can learn more about the art world and the achievements of the medalists.
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In addition to the 36 medals, the winners will have the chance to select 12 of their peers to receive special gold medals. This peer review process shows how important it is for artists to support one another.
The Art Basel Awards are being presented in partnership with Boss, a well-known fashion brand. This collaboration adds an exciting touch to the event, as Boss has a history of supporting contemporary art.
