ArtReview, an opinion-forming British art magazine, has published its Power 2011 poll presenting the 100 most influential artists in the world. This prestigious group includes writers, philosophers, actors and… Miuccia Prada, the famous fashion designer. There are also two Poles in the ranking: Adam Szymczyk (49th) and Artur Żmijewski (54th).


Number one is the Chinese curator and artist Ai Weiwei, author of the Bird’s Nest Olympic stadium. His place on the list reflects both his artistic achievements and active social attitude. Weiwei was detained in April this year and subsequently released. His civil rights, however, have been limited: for example, he cannot leave Beijing. The ranking also includes the directors of the world’s most important museums, such as the MoMA and Tate Modern.

Adam Szymczyk is a curator, art critic, co-founder of the Foksal Gallery and previously also the director of the Kunsthalle in Basel. He is known for finding and supporting young talents.

Artur Żmijewski is an artist, multimedia creator and director connected with the Foksal Gallery, and an editor of the Krytyka Polityczna. His works are exhibited in the world’s major museums, such as the New York MoMA, or the Tate Modern in London.

The poll is produced every year. Last year, number one was Larry Gagosian, referred to as the top businessman in the art world, owner of nine galleries of contemporary art. This year, he came 4th.

More information about the poll is available at www.artreview.com.