Photograph: Chieska Fortune Smith.
Hoor Al Qasimi, the 25th Artistic Director of the Biennale of Sydney, has claimed the number one spot on ArtReview’s Power 100 list, which highlights the most influential figures in the global art world.
The Power 100 is an annual ranking that showcases the individuals and organisations shaping contemporary art over the past year. It’s a reflection of the people and ideas driving creativity and innovation in the contemporary art landscape.
Hoor Al Qasimi’s recognition comes as no surprise, given her remarkable contributions to the art world. She has been the Director of the Sharjah Biennial since 2003 and founded the Sharjah Art Foundation in 2009. Her expertise has extended beyond the UAE, with recent accomplishments including curating the Lahore Biennale (2020) and her appointments as Artistic Director for both the Aichi Triennale 2025 in Japan and the 25th Biennale of Sydney in 2026.
Learn more about her achievements and explore the full Power 100 list via the links below.
Well-deserved applause to everyone featured on ArtReview’s Power 100 list, celebrating the most influential figures in the art world! Several Biennale of Sydney alumni were recognised for their remarkable contributions to contemporary art. Their achievements continue to inspire and affirm the transformative power of creativity and storytelling.
Archie Moore, 20th Biennale of Sydney artist, placed 98th after becoming the first Australian to win the Golden Lion Award for his presentation of kith and kin at the Venice Biennale.
Brook Andrew, Artistic Director of the 22nd Biennale of Sydney, NIRIN and artist, placed 31st, praised for “challenging dominant narratives with Indigenous knowledge systems”.
Mami Kataoka, Artistic Director of the 21st Biennale of Sydney, SUPERPOSITION: Equilibrium & Engagement, placed 62nd, acknowledged for her involvement in biennales around the world.
Many other Biennale of Sydney alumni also made the list including: Sammy Baloji, Agnes Denes, Cao Fei, Nicolas Galanin, Nan Goldin, Emily Jacir, Issac Julien, Josh Kline, Ibrahim Mahama, Steve McQueen, Julie Mehretu, Wael Shawky, Yinka Shonibare, Rirkrit Tiravanija, Cecilia Vicuña and Haegue Yang.
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