American artist, curator, and author Fareed Armaly made headlines recently when he declined the prestigious 2025 Käthe Kollwitz Prize from the Academy of the Arts (ADK) in Berlin. Armaly cited the “reactionary shift in official cultural policies” targeting advocates for Palestinian rights in Germany as the reason for his decision.
In a statement released by the Academy, it was revealed that the award cycle was suspended this year due to Armaly’s rejection of the prize. The Academy linked this decision to Armaly’s letter to ADK and ADK President Manos Tsangaris’s response.
Armaly, who is of Lebanese-Palestinian heritage and has lived and worked between Germany and the United States, produces and collaborates on projects that delve into history, geography, architecture, design, archaeology, and language through the lens of Palestine and beyond.
In his letter to ADK, Armaly expressed gratitude for the recognition of his practice but acknowledged the “disturbing trend of censorship in Germany.” He criticized liberal cultural institutions for adopting complacency and self-censorship, which he believes contributes to the dehumanization of Palestinians by silencing their voices.
The artist pointed out instances of censorship in the German arts and culture sector, such as rescinded speaking and exhibition opportunities for artists and scholars with affiliations to Palestine. Armaly stated that he could not align himself with institutions operating under the current cultural policy framework of the German government, leading to his decision to decline the award.
ADK President Tsangaris responded to Armaly’s rejection with respect and regret, emphasizing the Academy’s stance against censorship and political influence. Tsangaris assured Armaly that he would have had the opportunity to freely discuss his views at the award ceremony and related exhibition.
The Käthe Kollwitz Prize, named after the renowned artist known for her depictions of war, hunger, and working-class struggle, is awarded annually to an individual artist for a single piece or body of work. Recipients of the prize in the last decade include photographer Nan Goldin, conceptual artist Adrian Piper, and filmmaker Hito Steyerl.
Armaly’s decision to decline the Käthe Kollwitz Prize highlights the complex intersection of art, politics, and censorship in the contemporary cultural landscape. His stance serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding artistic freedom and amplifying marginalized voices in the face of oppressive policies.
