In a heartwarming turn of events, four Boston-based artists were recently honored with the 2025 James and Audrey Foster Prize, an esteemed biennial award presented by the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA). The recipients—Sneha Shrestha, Alison Croney Moses, Yorgos Efthymiadis, and Damien Hoar de Galvan—were selected for their outstanding contributions to the local art scene. This accolade not only celebrates their individual achievements but also highlights the rich diversity of artistic expression in Boston.

From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition

The journey to this moment was both unexpected and deeply emotional for Sneha Shrestha, a Somerville-based artist born in Nepal. While running errands near Harvard Square, she received news that would change her life. The ICA had chosen her as one of the recipients of the prestigious Foster Prize. Overwhelmed with emotion, Shrestha shared the news with her father, who was thousands of miles away in Nepal. For Shrestha, this recognition symbolizes the sacrifices made to pursue her passion for art in a new country.

The prize comes with a $10,000 honorarium and culminates in a solo exhibition at the ICA, opening on August 25 and running through January 19. This opportunity is particularly meaningful for artists like Shrestha, whose work blends elements from her Nepali heritage with graffiti techniques learned in Boston. Similarly, each recipient brings a unique perspective shaped by their personal histories and cultural backgrounds.

Alison Croney Moses, a woodwork sculptor from Roslindale, reflects on the significance of being recognized in her hometown. Born to Guyanese parents in North Carolina, her rounded vessels often explore themes of motherhood and identity. Meanwhile, photographer Yorgos Efthymiadis, originally from Greece, captures the subtle differences between his homeland and Boston through his lens. Lastly, Damien Hoar de Galvan, a sculptor from Milton who grew up between Massachusetts and Argentina, creates abstract works from recycled wood, symbolizing the interconnectedness of different worlds.

An Artist's Reflection

For these artists, the Foster Prize represents more than just professional recognition—it’s a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's roots. In a fast-paced world inundated with information, the slow, deliberate process of creating art remains essential. As Hoar de Galvan aptly puts it, "The making is slow, and the looking should also be slow."

This award not only celebrates the talent of these individuals but also underscores the vital role institutions like the ICA play in nurturing local artists. By providing platforms for showcasing their work, the ICA encourages artists to remain in Boston, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. For Shrestha, this means bringing her family to experience her success firsthand, bridging the gap between her past and present.

In the end, the Foster Prize serves as a reminder that art has the power to connect people across boundaries, fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives. It invites us all to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty in the slower, more thoughtful moments of life.