Artist Ibrahim Mahama has made history as the first African to top ArtReview magazine’s annual power list, which ranks the most influential figures in the contemporary art world. Known for transforming found materials—such as textile remnants, train carriages, and hospital beds—into evocative art, Mahama blends history, community, and cultural commentary in his work. His recent projects include draping London’s Barbican in 2,000 square meters of fabric and exploring Ghana’s colonial railway in Songs About Roses. Mahama’s achievements extend beyond the studio: he founded the Savannah Centre for Contemporary Art in Tamale, fostering local talent and cultural engagement. His recognition, alongside other figures from Africa and the Middle East in the top ten, signals a shift in global art power toward these regions.
The Guardian
