Henrike Grohs Art Award 2026

Kitso's work resonated with the jury for its articulation of disobedience and disruption. There is a firm affirmation of the necessity to look beyond traditional references to colonial powers. Notably, in considering Kitso's work, the jury viewed it not as a final achievement but as a constant state of becoming—a metaphor for the artist herself. Kitso embodies a perpetual reinvention, eschewing the notion of a finished work in favour of one that exists and re-exists, signifying a continuous and evolving artistic journey.
 
Johannes Ebert, Secretary General of the Goethe-Institut, notes: “The Henrike Grohs Art Prize, in honour of its namesake, promotes the principles and values of international cultural exchange as understood by the Goethe-Institut and stands as a beacon for the recognition and support of outstanding artistic talent. For the fourth edition of the award, 690 applications from 40 African countries have been submitted, more than ever before. I sincerely congratulate the main winner Kitso Lynn Lelliott from Botswana, who has captured the hearts and minds of our esteemed jury members with exceptional talent and creativity, and the two deserving runners-up Wambui Kamiru Collymore from Kenya and Frederick Ebenezer Okai from Ghana.”