The case
Ibrahim Mahama is the first African artist to top ArtReview’s Power 100 list.
Source: artsy.net
The commentary
The magazine published its annual ranking yesterday, spotlighting the most influential figures shaping the global art world. Compiled by a panel of anonymous experts, the closely watched list highlights individuals whose work has significantly influenced contemporary art’s direction and discourse over the past year .
Mahama, who lives and works in Ghana, shot to the top from 14th place in 2024. Now 38, he has gained international recognition over the past decade for his monumental textile-based installations made from repurposed jute sacks and industrial materials. Mahama’s work often addresses themes of labour, migration and exploitation.
This year’s Power 100 also reflects the growing influence of the Middle East in the global art world. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, chairperson of Qatar Museums, rose to 2nd place, up from 21st last year. Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, director of the Sharjah Art Foundation and last year’s top-ranked figure, remains highly placed at number three. Saudi Arabia’s minister of culture, Badr bin Abdullah Al Saud, climbed to 21st from 41st, highlighting the continued expansion of the region’s state-backed cultural infrastructure.
According to one art-market source Mahama’s works have achieved prices ranging from USD 5,000 to as high as USD 105,000, at auctions depending on their size and medium.
