Among the winners, Emeka Ogboh stands out for his unique approach to sound as an artistic medium.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
Nigerian sound artist Emeka Ogboh has been named a winner of the 2026 Chanel Next Prize, earning a €100,000 grant that recognises innovative creators shaping the global art scene.
The award, presented by the Chanel Culture Fund, also includes a two-year mentorship and networking programme designed to help artists expand their practice and reach new audiences. The Chanel Next Prize, now in its third edition, celebrates artists working across multiple disciplines, including visual art, music, performance, film, and design.
This year, ten artists from around the world received the prize, each chosen for their originality and impact on contemporary culture. The 2026 prize went to artists including Ambrose Akinmusire, Payal Kapadia, and Bárbara Sánchez-Kane, all of whom will join Ogboh in a mentorship programme that begins with a visit to the Venice Biennale in May. This programme allows the artists to collaborate, share ideas, and gain guidance from established curators and cultural leaders.
Among the winners, Ogboh stands out for his unique approach to sound as an artistic medium. Born in Lagos, Ogboh has spent years exploring the rhythms and textures of urban life. Through field recordings and immersive installations, he transforms everyday sounds into works that reflect the energy, history, and social dynamics of African cities, inviting audiences to listen deeply and experience places in entirely new ways.
“The Chanel Next Prize creates the conditions for artists to thrive on their own terms. Each winner is a trailblazer shaping the now and defining the next with creativity and audacity”, said Yana Peel, Chanel’s global head of arts, culture, and heritage, in a statement. “Following their journeys will be nothing short of thrilling”.
Ogboh’s recognition by Chanel reflects a growing international appreciation for sound art and multidisciplinary practices, highlighting how African artists are increasingly shaping global conversations in contemporary art. His work challenges viewers to consider how sound influences memory, culture, and identity.