Japan's prestigious arts prizes, known as the Praemium Imperiale award, were handed out on Wednesday (October 15).

French painter Martial Raysse, Italian sculptor Giuseppe Penone, American architect Steven Holl, Estonian musician Arvo Part and South African playwright and actor Athol Fugard were all awarded the honour.

It was formally presented by Japan's Prince Hitachi.

The Praemium Imperiale, which started in 1989 and is awarded by the Japan Art Association, honours artists who have contributed significantly to the development of arts and culture.