Belgian choreographer Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker has been named a recipient of the 2025 Praemium Imperiale, often regarded as the “Nobel Prize of the arts," according to a statement released on Tuesday.
The award, established in 1988 by the Japan Art Association, honours achievements in five categories: painting, sculpture, performing arts and film, music, and architecture, and comes with a prize of 15 million yen (approximately €92,000).
Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker, 65, a prominent figure in contemporary dance, has been recognised in the performing arts and film category. The jury praised her for “exploring the structural relationship between music and movement, engaging in dialogue across diverse musical eras and styles, from minimalism to classical, and even blues.”
Serbian artist Marina Abramovic, 78, received the award for sculpture. The jury described her as a “pioneer in body art” who has used her own body as a means of expression.
British painter Peter Doig, 66, was awarded in the painting category. The jury noted that he “creates vivid landscapes and characters” and “often blends the real with the surreal.”
Portuguese architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, known for designing the Braga stadium for Euro 2004 and the Paula Rego Museum near Lisbon, was honoured in the architecture category.
Lastly, Hungarian pianist Andras Schiff, 71, was recognised for his distinguished career as a soloist and conductor in the music category.
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on 22 October in Tokyo.
