Artes Mundi, the UK’s prominent contemporary art biennial and prize, has announced its shortlist of six artists for its eleventh edition, set to take place from October 17, 2025, to February 22, 2026. The event, partnered with the Bagri Foundation, promises to bring global perspectives on the human condition through cutting-edge contemporary visual art.
The six shortlisted artists for Artes Mundi 11 (AM11) represent diverse backgrounds and practices, united by their focus on global issues and cultural dialogues. They are:
•Jumana Emil Abboud (Jerusalem)
•Anawana Haloba (Zambia/Norway)
•Antonio Paucar (Peru/Germany)
•Kameelah Janan Rasheed (USA)
•Sancintya Mohini Simpson (Australia)
•Sawangwongse Yawnghwe (Burma/Netherlands)
These artists, chosen for their exploration of critical global themes, will each present their work in the biennial exhibition at multiple venues across Wales, marking the second edition to feature a nationwide showcase. The flagship exhibition will be held at the National Museum Cardiff, with solo presentations at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, Glynn Vivian Art Gallery in Swansea, MOSTYN in Llandudno, and Chapter in Cardiff.
Cultural Exchange and Examination of the Human Condition
Artes Mundi continues to act as a vital cultural bridge, facilitating exchange between the UK and international artistic communities. The biennial provides a platform for artists whose work deeply engages with the complexities of the human condition, tackling issues such as migration, identity, social justice, and environmental crises.
For many artists, Artes Mundi represents their first major introduction to UK audiences. The biennial has a rich history of spotlighting emerging talents who go on to achieve international recognition. Past participants include John Akomfrah, Xu Bing, Ragnar Kjartansson, and Theaster Gates. The most recent winner of the £40,000 prize, Taloi Havini, was awarded during Artes Mundi 10 for her poignant work exploring Oceania’s cultural and environmental concerns.
Venues Across Wales: A National Platform
In a continuation of its commitment to expanding access to contemporary art, AM11 will once again partner with several art venues across Wales. This multi-venue format was successfully introduced during AM10, broadening the scope and reach of the biennial, allowing audiences across the country to engage with world-class contemporary art. Aberystwyth Arts Centre will join the list of venue partners for the first time, alongside Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, MOSTYN, Chapter, and the National Museum Cardiff.
Celebrating Artists at Critical Career Moments
The six selected artists are at pivotal points in their careers, with each one using their work to explore urgent contemporary issues. Jumana Emil Abboud, for example, draws on her Palestinian heritage to interrogate themes of memory and loss, while Kameelah Janan Rasheed uses her multidisciplinary practice to explore Black narratives, language, and the politics of knowledge. Anawana Haloba’s work often involves immersive installations that engage with the social and political complexities of post-colonial Africa.
Antonio Paucar’s performance-based art frequently bridges the personal and political, reflecting on migration and belonging. Sancintya Mohini Simpson’s practice combines painting, poetry, and ritual to interrogate intergenerational trauma and migration in the context of indentured labor. Sawangwongse Yawnghwe draws on his Burmese heritage to create art that critiques the political history of Burma and the region’s ongoing struggles for democracy.
Looking Ahead to 2025-26
As the exhibition prepares to open in 2025, anticipation is growing for what promises to be a powerful exploration of contemporary life through art. With the support of the Bagri Foundation, Artes Mundi continues its mission to champion artists who tackle the pressing social, political, and environmental issues of our time. The winner of the prestigious £40,000 prize will be announced during the exhibition run.
An Unmissable Biennial
Artes Mundi 11 continues the biennial’s legacy of showcasing innovative contemporary art that addresses the human condition. By amplifying voices from around the world, the exhibition provides a space for critical reflection and dialogue about the most pressing issues of our time. With five venues across Wales hosting the works of these visionary artists, AM11 offers an expansive and thought-provoking experience for audiences both local and international.
