ArtReview Releases 2020 Power 100 List Amid Pandemic and Societal Shifts
ArtReview's 2020 Power 100 list showcases key individuals shaping the art sector during the upheaval caused by COVID-19 and societal introspection. Created by approximately 20 industry insiders, this ranking emphasizes justice, equality, and human rights over mere artistic achievements. In Germany, the pandemic resulted in the delay of exhibitions and the closure of museums, although commercial galleries continued operations. A survey in Singapore identified 'artist' as the leading nonessential profession, while UK finance minister Rishi Sunak addressed the importance of preserving 'viable jobs,' impacting cultural workers. Established in 2002, the Power 100 evaluates influence in contemporary art, reflecting pandemic challenges with an emphasis on local art and digital outreach, drawing from over 400 nominations to explore power dynamics and disparities in the art realm.
Key facts
- ArtReview published the 2020 Power 100 list ranking the most influential people in the art world.
- The list is compiled by a network of around 20 art world insiders and outsiders globally.
- COVID-19 led to postponements or cancellations of exhibitions, biennials, and art fairs in 2020.
- Germany's lockdowns closed museums as health hazards while commercial galleries remained open.
- A June survey in Singapore's Sunday Times ranked 'artist' as the number one nonessential job.
- Britain's finance minister Rishi Sunak discussed saving only 'viable jobs' in November 2020.
- The Power 100 was initiated in 2002 to examine power structures and inequalities in art.
- This year's list emphasizes values like justice, equality, and human rights over individual artistic works.
Entities
Artists
- Rishi Sunak
Institutions
- ArtReview
- Sunday Times
- Association for Hat Fashion in Vienna
Locations
- Germany
- Singapore
- Britain
- US
- Europe
- Philippines
- Hong Kong
- New York
- New Delhi
- Shanghai
- London
- Vienna
- Austria