Shaping Instagram’s Inaugural RINGS Awards

INSTAGRAM
KAWS, FUTURA
Focus

In celebration of creativity in the digital age, Instagram launched the first-ever RINGS Awards, a global recognition program honoring creators who shape culture and push artistic boundaries. The initiative brought together a cross-disciplinary mix of visionaries—from fashion and art to film and sport—each representing the bold, boundary-breaking spirit that defines creativity today. Among the Class of 2025 winners were Futura, Gabriel Moses, Tyshawn Jones, and Mika Ninagawa—each embodying Instagram’s mission to champion authentic creative voices across the world.

Expertise

ICNCLST collaborated with leadership at Instagram Creators and Wasserman Creative to curate a class of nominees that reflected true cultural impact. Our team helped guide the program’s talent selection, ensuring its debut felt credible, artist-first, and globally resonant.  

Curation & Cultural Alignment

ICNCLST played a key role in bringing together a judging panel of cultural icons, successfully ushering KAWS into the program alongside Wales Bonner, Marc Jacobs, and Spike Lee. This alignment reinforced the integrity of the awards—anchoring Instagram’s celebration of creativity in the same artistic lineage that defines modern culture.

NEW YORK HQ
50 White St
First Floor
New York
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NEW YORK HQ
50 White St
First Floor
New York
NY 10013
LOS ANGELES HQ
c/o CONTROL Gallery
434 N. La Brea Ave
Los Angeles
CA 90036
NEW YORK HQ
50 White St
First Floor
New York
NY 10013
LOS ANGELES HQ
c/o CONTROL Gallery
434 N. La Brea Ave
Los Angeles
CA 90036