Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama has made history as the first African artist to top the global art power list, earning recognition as one of the most influential figures in contemporary art. His achievement marks a milestone for contemporary African artists and underscores the growing prominence of African art galleries on the world stage.
A Historic Recognition for Ibrahim Mahama
Mahama, known for transforming found materials such as textile remnants into striking artworks, was selected by ArtReview’s annual power list, which ranks the contemporary art world’s most influential individuals and organizations. Expressing humility, the artist reflected on how he first learned about the power list during his university years at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana.
“For me, coming from Ghana—a country often overlooked in global art discourse—this recognition is incredibly humbling,” Mahama said. He hopes his success inspires emerging artists in Africa to understand that they are part of the contemporary art conversation, not merely on its periphery.
ArtReview Acknowledges Shifting Global Influence
Mark Rappolt, editor-in-chief of ArtReview, noted that Mahama’s top ranking signals a broader shift in the art world’s power dynamics. “This reflects a realignment in global cultural influence,” Rappolt commented, highlighting how African art and artists are increasingly shaping international discourse.
Mahama’s practice, represented by Apalazzo Gallery and White Cube galleries, includes large-scale installations, sculptures, and architectural interventions. His works frequently explore themes of global trade, labor, commodification, economic inequality, migration, and the socio-political legacies of colonialism in Africa.
Notable Projects and Exhibitions
In 2024, Mahama’s installation Songs About Roses at the Edinburgh Festival examined the rise and fall of the British-built railway in Ghana (1898–1923) and was celebrated as “as extraordinary as a great magic-realist novel.” Earlier, he draped the 2,000 sq. ft. Barbican Centre with bright pink fabric, stitched together on a football field due to its massive size.
Mahama also founded the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art in Tamale in 2019, a 900 sq. metre space functioning as an exhibition area, library, residency, archive, and studio. His commitment to community-driven projects reflects a broader movement among top-ranked artists who combine individual creativity with local engagement.
African Art on the Global Stage
The ArtReview power list, compiled over 24 years, now features several prominent artists and curators from Africa and the Middle East. Mahama’s top placement emphasizes the growing impact of African art galleries and the recognition of contemporary African artists in shaping international cultural narratives.
Top 10 Highlights from the 2025 Art Power List:
- Ibrahim Mahama, Africa
- Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Qatar
- Sheikha Hoor al-Qasimi, UAE
- Wael Shawky, Egypt
- Ho Tzu Nyen, Singapore
- Amy Sherald, America
- Kerry James Marshall
- Saidiya Hartman, UK
- Forensic Architecture
- Wolfgang Tillmans, Germany
Mahama’s recognition reflects not only his personal achievements but also the increasing influence of African art in global creative networks, paving the way for future contemporary African artists and dynamic exhibitions in the region.
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This story was first reported by The News. Read the full article here.
