Miami Beach, FL — The very first Art Basel Awards took place at the iconic New World Center, marking a groundbreaking moment at the intersection of global art and culture. Hosted by hip-hop mogul, producer, and respected art collector Swizz Beatz, the ceremony introduced what promises to become a defining annual celebration of creative excellence.
Set within the New World Center’s dramatic circular amphitheater, the stage unfolded in rich golden and amber tones—draped in cascading fabric and illuminated with warm, cinematic light. The layered, semi-circular steps created a sculptural arena for the night’s presenters and performers, while a live ensemble elevated the atmosphere with orchestral depth. The immersive design transformed the venue into a glowing, cathedral-like celebration of art, performance, and community.
Among the presenters were rapper A$AP Ferg and singers Khalid and Fridayy, whose presence underscored the event’s commitment to bridging contemporary art with the wider world of music and cultural influence.
With a visionary crowd gathered in South Beach, the premiere event honored 11 outstanding creatives with the 2025 Art Basel Gold Award—a distinction both chosen by peers and recognized by Art Basel.
The inaugural awardees reflect a diverse spectrum of innovation, from material experimentation to political engagement, from community activism to poetic expression.
These first-ever honorees forge connections between fine art and the wider worlds of music, design, performance, ecology, and social transformation.
⸻
Voices From the Stage
Established Artist Category winner Ibrahim Mahama shared:
“What a way to end the year receiving the inaugural Art Basel Award in the Established Artist Category together with our dear colleague Nairy Baghramian… Congratulations to all the winners for the years of inspiration, dedication, and hard work… Thank you Miami. Thank you Ghana and most importantly the city of Tamale for giving me the room to express my thoughts and imaginations. Still more to come.”
Art Basel Awards is presented in collaboration with Hugo Boss.
@saodatismailova
@mohammadalfaraj
@nairybaghramian
@ibrahimmahama3
@ceciliavicuna
@formafantasma
@raw.gram2011
@negoush
@gasworkslondon
@candicebhopkins
@meriembennani
