The Prince Claus Impact Award has spotlighted the ground-breaking contributions of six exceptional artists, each recognized for their profound influence on society through their diverse and transformative work.
The 2024 awardees are:
- Va-Bene Elikem Fiatsi (Ghana)
- Rosa Chávez (Guatemala)
- Mu Cao (China)
- Myrlande Constant (Haiti)
- Nguyễn Trinh Thi (Vietnam)
- Sana Na N’Hada (Guinea-Bissau)
This prestigious accolade, presented biennially, celebrates artists whose work has not only made significant strides in their respective fields but has also served as a catalyst for change on both local and global scales. The 2024 recipients stand at the forefront of addressing critical global issues such as political unrest, environmental challenges, and the exploration of gender and queer identities.
Through a diverse range of poetry, performance art, filmmaking, and also visual arts, they have effectively demonstrated how creativity can intersect with activism, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and just world.
The Prince Claus Impact Award is awarded by an independent jury of international leaders in the arts and culture sectors, ensuring a rigorous selection process that recognizes excellence in artistic practice and social engagement. The jury for 2024 was led by curator Pablo León de la Barra (Jury Chair) and included notable figures such as novelist Kettly Mars (2011 Laureate), filmmaker Anocha Suwichakornpong (2019 Laureate), photographer Sammy Baloji (2009 Laureate), and interdisciplinary practitioner Avni Seth. Their collective expertise brought a nuanced and informed perspective to the selection process, affirming the global reach and impact of the awardees.
The six recipients have made extraordinary contributions that transcend the boundaries of their artistic disciplines. From challenging traditional notions of gender to renewing attention to anti-colonial history, their work is a testament to the transformative power of art. They have embraced queerness beyond Western frameworks, created spaces for marginalized voices, and cultivated new talent, all while addressing the urgent need for a more sustainable and inclusive world. Their work not only reflects the resilience of the human spirit but also serves as a beacon for future generations of artists.
This year’s awardees are a vivid reminder of how art can influence political discourse, bring attention to environmental crises, and shift societal norms. By engaging deeply with the complexities of identity, power, and justice, they have further used their platforms to advocate for change, pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the arts.
