19 September – 25 January | York Art Gallery, UK

The Vanguard: Defining the Future of Art, Here and Now

Art is a powerful catalyst for change – breaking down walls, shaking up old narratives, and sparking urgent conversations that question the world as we know it. At a time when the future feels uncertain, The Aesthetica Art Prize brings together 25 visionaries from around the world who confront the biggest issues facing humanity today. This collection of work confronts the relentless advancement of technology, the existential realities of climate change, the deep scars of colonialism, and the ongoing fight for gender equality and racial justice. It refuses to shy away from complexity, challenging us to think deeply about identity, belonging and how history shapes who we are now. These artists use bold mediums – painting, photography, sculpture, video and immersive installation – to reveal the invisible and give voice to stories often untold.

Images: Ellie Davies; Àsìkò; Michelle Blancke.

Images: Stephen Johnston; Princess Arinola Adegbite; Vlad Hrynko.

Art is an Agent of Change

This exhibition reflects both the world’s pain and chaos, but also the joy, resilience and hope that propels us forward. It reminds us that no matter where we come from or who we are, we share this transient moment on Earth, charged with possibility and demanding our attention. The Aesthetica Art Prize is the UK’s leading platform for the brightest new voices and ideas shaping cultural conversations today. Set in York, a UNESCO City of Media Arts, it connects art and activism, memory and future vision, creativity and urgent action. This is the place where exciting talent explores the big questions of our time on a global stage. Curated by Cherie Federico and produced with York Museums Trust.

The Finalists

This year, the 25 shortlisted artists are: Àsìkò, Ayo Akingbade, Bart Nelissen, Brendan Dawes, Ellie Davies, Emma Scarafiotti, Gala Hernández López, Hussina Raja, Joanne Coates, Kate Hrynko, Liz Miller Kovacs, Michelle Blancke, Mónica Alcázar-Duarte, Morgan Quaintance, Peter Spanjer, Princess Arinola Adegbite, Rayvenn D’Clark, Sam Metz, Sarah Maple, Sof, Stephen Johnston, Susanna Wallin, Sujata Setia, Tobi Onabolu and Vlad Hrynko.

Images: Sujata Setia; Sarah Maple; Emma Scarafiotti. Top: Liz Miller Kovacs.

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