Art Basel Hong Kong has long been a powerhouse for showcasing groundbreaking talent, and 2025 is no exception. This year marks the inaugural MGM Discoveries Prize, a $50,000 award designed to propel emerging artists into the international spotlight. The prize, to be awarded at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 28-30, is split between the winning artist and their representing gallery. But the real jewel? A coveted exhibition opportunity in Macau.
The three shortlisted artists—Shin Min, Kayode Ojo, and Saju Kunhan—bring distinct narratives and mediums to the forefront, making this one of the most compelling art competitions of the year.
The Finalists: Defining a New Artistic Era
Shin Min (P21, Seoul) constructs striking collages and sculptures that confront oppression, labor struggles, and systemic violence. Her work pulses with political urgency, turning fragmented materials into a commentary on resilience.
Kayode Ojo (Sweetwater, Berlin) offers a different lens on contemporary culture through his provocative photography and sculptural installations. His works glimmer with the aesthetics of desire, aspiration, and excess, mirroring the seductive yet fleeting nature of modern social status.
Saju Kunhan (Tarq, Mumbai) channels his familial migration history into rich, layered paintings. His compositions act as visual time capsules, merging personal memory with broader cultural shifts, resulting in pieces that feel both intimate and universal.
A Prize Shaped by Industry Titans
The MGM Discoveries Prize is no arbitrary accolade. Finalists were meticulously chosen from 22 galleries within the fair’s Discoveries sector—a dedicated space for emerging solo artists. The selection jury comprises esteemed figures such as Aaron Cezar (Delfina Foundation), Antonia Carver (Art Jameel), Christopher K. Ho (Asia Art Archive), X Zhu-Nowell (Rockbund Art Museum), and Park Seungho (PARKSEOBO FOUNDATION). Their collective expertise ensures the prize not only elevates deserving talent but also enriches the contemporary art landscape.
MGM China Holdings Limited, a key supporter of Art Basel Hong Kong since 2017, conceived this award in alignment with their deep-rooted investment in cultural development. With major casino and resort operations in Macau, the company continues to integrate art into the fabric of luxury and entertainment.
The Future of Contemporary Art Starts Here
With its impressive lineup of emerging talent and an award that fosters artistic growth, Art Basel Hong Kong’s 2025 edition reaffirms its role as a launchpad for the next wave of contemporary artists. Whether through Shin Min’s politically charged assemblages, Kayode Ojo’s dazzling interrogations of consumerism, or Saju Kunhan’s historical reflections, this prize is not just about recognition—it’s about defining the future of art itself.
Want to witness the next big names in contemporary art? Mark your calendar for Art Basel Hong Kong, March 28-30, 2025.