Congratulations to Ken Nwadiogbu who is the winner of the Young Generation Art Award 2026.
The jury’s statement: Nwadiogbu’s works impressed with their technical virtuosity, emotional depth, and social relevance. He masterfully combines meticulously executed hyperrealistic figuration with expressive abstract backgrounds, positioning himself in a complex way within painterly modernism. Through portraits rendered in vibrant yellow tones, he honors members of the Black community and allows them to shine. In doing so, he creates a powerful connection between Nigerian heritage and contemporary art that moves and inspires.
In addition to prize money of €10,000, Ken Nwadiogbu will receive a solo exhibition at Frieze London 2026 as well as an international traveling exhibition.
Text courtesy of Degussa.