ArtReview's 2025 Power 100 Reveals Shifting Global Art Landscape

The 2025 Power 100 list by ArtReview has named Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama as its top-ranked individual, marking him as the first African to achieve this honor. A global panel of around 30 art professionals deliberates on nominations based on their international impact over the previous year. From the original list in 2002, only eight individuals remain, with Hans Ulrich Obrist being the sole member in the top 50. This list illustrates a diverse art world, as Gulf States enhance their cultural investments. Independent infrastructures are being established by artists like Yinka Shonibare and Marina Abramović. Additionally, galleries such as Zwirner and Hauser & Wirth are venturing into publishing and education, while thinkers like Judith Butler and the late Koyo Kouoh are recognized. The ranking highlights the art world's social dynamics, prioritizing actions over mere intentions.