Ho Tzu Nyen Becomes First Singaporean to Win Fukuoka Grand Prize
On May 22, the Fukuoka Prize Committee revealed that Ho Tzu Nyen, an artist from Singapore, will be the recipient of the 2026 Grand Prize, marking a historic first for Singapore. This prestigious award, worth JPY five million (USD 31,500), honors notable achievements in Asian studies and the arts. Born in Singapore in 1976, Ho’s diverse work—spanning films, performances, and video installations—delves into Southeast Asian history, especially the effects of Japanese imperialism. He often merges folklore elements like yōkai and tigers with real-life narratives. Having represented Singapore at the 54th Venice Biennale, he has also joined various biennials. Ho plans to deliver a public lecture on September 12, followed by the award ceremony on September 14.
Key facts
- Ho Tzu Nyen wins 2026 Fukuoka Grand Prize
- First Singaporean to receive the prize
- Prize amount: JPY five million (USD 31,500)
- Announced on May 22 by Fukuoka Prize Committee
- Born 1976 in Singapore
- Works explore Southeast Asian history and Japanese imperialism
- Represented Singapore at 54th Venice Biennale
- Artistic director of 16th Gwangju Biennale opening September 2026
- Public lecture on September 12, award ceremony on September 14
Entities
Artists
- Ho Tzu Nyen
- Nam June Paik
- Akira Kurosawa
- Hou Hsiao-hsien
Institutions
- Fukuoka Prize Committee
- Singapore Art Museum
- ArtAsiaPacific
- The Straits Times
- Venice Biennale
- Shanghai Biennale
- Aichi Triennale
- Sharjah Biennial
- Asian Art Biennial Taiwan
- Gwangju Biennale
Locations
- Singapore
- Fukuoka
- Venice
- Shanghai
- Aichi
- Sharjah
- Taiwan
- Gwangju