The art world in 2025 is vibrant and dynamic, characterized by a blend of tradition and cutting-edge innovation. This year has seen a remarkable breadth of talent, with artists excelling across various disciplines, from painting and sculpture to digital and conceptual art. The focus has been on both emerging voices and established figures, bringing diversity and fresh perspectives to the forefront.
Key Recognitions and Winners
Landscape Artist of the Year 2025
Benjamin MacGregor, a self-taught painter from London, was awarded the prestigious Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2025. His work resonates with the historical legacy of landscape painting, drawing inspiration from the likes of Monet and Van Gogh. His commission to create landscapes in Aix-en-Provence, retracing Cézanne’s steps, highlights his innovative approach to capturing the essence of nature while paying homage to past masters.
The Art Basel Awards 2025
The Art Basel Awards celebrated a multitude of artists who are pushing the boundaries of contemporary art:
- Lubaina Himid was recognized for her influential role in British Black Arts and her upcoming representation of the UK at the 2026 Venice Biennale.
- Adrian Piper, a leading Conceptual artist, was celebrated for her work that explores themes of race, identity, and power.
- Meriem Bennani gained attention for her unique blend of digital culture, postcolonial critique, and humor in her video and sculpture work.
- Pan Daijing, Grace Wales Bonner, Formafantasma, Candice Hopkins, and the RAW Material Company were also acknowledged for their contributions to various art forms, from sound and performance to design and curation.
Artsy Vanguard 2025
The Artsy Vanguard highlighted emerging artists who are making waves in the art scene:
- Artists like Agnes Waruguru, Chris Oh, and Emily Kraus were noted for their originality and impact on the art world.
- Their works were prominently displayed on a digital billboard in New York’s Times Square, showcasing their talent to a global audience.
Other Noteworthy Artists
2025 also spotlighted several artists who are gaining recognition for their innovative approaches:
- Moka Lee from South Korea is known for her figurative paintings that explore the influence of social media on identity. Her piece Ego Function Error is a prime example of how retro aesthetics can be intertwined with digital culture to comment on modern life.
- Other artists like Touils, Agnès Waruguru, Dabin Ahn, and Emily Kraus have brought unique perspectives from their diverse cultural backgrounds.
Artfinder’s Ones to Watch
Artfinder identified a group of artists who represent the diversity of artistic practice in 2025:
- Artists such as Simon Shepherd (mixed-media sculpture), Jonas Peres (acrylic painting), and Charlotte Farmer (screenprint) were highlighted for their innovative work across various media.
- This cohort of artists exemplifies the range of styles and approaches that are capturing the art community’s attention this year.
Trends in Art for 2025
The art world in 2025 is characterized by several prominent trends:
- Sustainability and Nature: Artists are increasingly focusing on environmental themes, utilizing recycled materials to address ecological concerns.
- Personal Narratives: There is a continued exploration of identity, heritage, gender, and mental health, with artists using their work to express personal stories and societal issues.
- Digital Influence: The rise of digital art, including AI and augmented reality, is reshaping how art is created and experienced, offering new ways for audiences to engage with artworks.
2025 Highlights
| Award/Event | Winner/Notable Artists | Focus/Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape Artist of the Year | Benjamin MacGregor | Landscape painting, inspired by Cézanne |
| Art Basel Awards | Lubaina Himid, Adrian Piper, etc. | Contemporary, conceptual, cross-media |
| Artsy Vanguard | Waruguru, Lee, Kraus, Inniss, others | Emerging international talent |
| Top Painters to Watch | Moka Lee, Touils, Waruguru, etc. | Innovation in figurative painting |
| Artfinder Ones to Watch | Shepherd, Peres, Farmer, Culph, etc. | Diverse media and rising stars |
The art scene in 2025 is a tapestry of diverse voices and innovative practices. No single artwork dominates; instead, a constellation of artists and works reflects the ongoing evolution and innovation within the art world, underscoring a commitment to embracing new media and diverse voices.