Hoor Al Qasimi Recognised As Most Influential Person In Contemporary Art By ArtReview Power 100 List

Hoor Al Qasimi has been recognised as the most influential figure in contemporary art for 2024 by ArtReview’s Power 100 list. This list highlights individuals who have significantly impacted global art developments. Al Qasimi's top position acknowledges her extensive contributions over three decades as a curator and institutional leader, alongside her dedication to promoting inclusivity and diversity in Sharjah's art scene and beyond.

Al Qasimi founded the Sharjah Art Foundation in 2009, where she serves as President and Director. The foundation aims to advocate for arts on a global scale. Since 2003, she has also directed the Sharjah Biennial, an internationally acclaimed platform for contemporary art. Her leadership has expanded the foundation's scope to include innovative exhibitions and diverse programmes in film, performance, music, and education.

In addition to her work with the Sharjah Art Foundation, Al Qasimi leads the March Meeting. This annual conference gathers artists, academics, curators, and cultural producers worldwide. Her influence extends further as she was appointed President of the International Biennial Association in 2017. She also holds positions as President of The Africa Institute and Global Studies University in Sharjah.

Al Qasimi's leadership extends to the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, which began in 2019. Her role as curator of the second Lahore Biennale in 2020 further solidified her standing in the art world. Recently, she was named Artistic Director of both the 2025 Aichi Triennale and the 2026 Biennale of Sydney, marking her as the first non-Japanese person to hold such a position at Aichi.

Her initiatives have been pivotal in challenging western-centric narratives within contemporary art. Through her leadership roles at various international organisations' boards, advisory councils, and juries, Al Qasimi has fostered platforms that encourage dialogue and collaboration among artists globally.

The Sharjah Biennial and Sharjah Art Foundation under her guidance have become leading platforms for contemporary art worldwide. These initiatives promote interaction between artists and cultural organisations across different regions.

Al Qasimi’s efforts continue to shape a more inclusive artistic landscape by supporting experimentation and innovation within the arts community. Her work ensures that diverse voices are heard within global artistic dialogues.

The recognition from ArtReview underscores Al Qasimi's enduring impact on shaping contemporary art narratives through her visionary leadership and commitment to fostering diversity within the arts sector.

With inputs from WAM