Shin Min Plays on Her Fast Food Experience to Win Art Basel Prize
The young Korean artist’s prize‑winning work was lauded by the jury for its ‘potent symbolism’ at Art Basel Hong Kong. Save to My Ocula
Seoul-based artist Shin Min has been awarded Art Basel and MGM’s new prize for a series of sculptures referencing her time working high-intensity, low-wage fast food jobs.
The artist won the jury over with her ‘potent symbolism’, with characters made from packaging paper in her installation, Ew! There is hair in the food!! (2025), with Seoul gallery P21 at Art Basel Hong Kong‘s Discoveries sector.
The jury also praised the artist’s ‘bold vision’ and exploration of personal experience working for companies like McDonald’s and Starbucks to confront ‘societal norms and systemic injustices’.
Upon receiving the MGM Discoveries Art Prize, which celebrates the originality of emerging artists, Min remarked ‘there are also people working behind the scene [at Art Basel Hong Kong] providing services in security, cleaning, and food and beverage’.
‘I hope they find my work amusing, relatable, and comforting,’ she said.
Min will receive 50,000 USD, to be shared with her representing gallery, P21, and the opportunity to exhibit in Macau.
Shortlisted artists include Kayode Ojo (Sweetwater Berlin) and Saju Kunhan (Tarq, Mumbai).
Art Basel partnered with mainland China and Macau-based casino and resort operators MGM China Holdings Limited for the new award.
Min’s exhibition of the same title is slated to open at P21 from 12 April to 17 May. —[O]
Main image: Shin Min, Ew! There is hair in the food!!, P21, Art Basel Hong Kong (28–30 March 2025). Courtesy Art Basel Hong Kong.
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