Climbable Spider Sculpture Wins Frieze London Artist Award

Athens-based artist Theo Triantafyllidis has been named the winner of the 2026 Frieze London Artist Award, presented in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture, for his interactive installation "Feral Metaverse (Spider), 2026." The work consists of a giant, climbable spider sculpture that also functions as a portal into a virtual world, blending physical and digital experiences.

The prize will be unveiled at Frieze London, which runs from October 14 to 18 in Regent's Park. The award recognizes artists who work across performance, installation, gaming, and VR technology, according to artforum.com.

artforum.comTheo Triantafyllidis Wins 2026 Frieze London Artist Award with VR-Infused Spider Installation

"a portal into his tactile, awkward 'Feral Metaverse'"

Artnet NewsThis Giant Spider at Frieze London Will Transport You to a Digital World

Artnet News described the sculpture as doubling as an entry point into Triantafyllidis's signature digital universe, one that feels deliberately rough and unconventional.

"an interactive monstrous spider sculpture"

a r t f o r u m . c o m emphasized the piece's scale and immersive nature, noting that visitors will be able to physically climb the spider before entering its digital realm. The installation is a centerpiece of this year's fair, where audience participation is key.