The 2026 Sobey Art Award finalists have been announced, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary art in Canada. The shortlist includes artists from various regions, each bringing a unique perspective to the forefront.
Among the nominees are Melaw Nakehk’o from the Circumpolar region, Samuel Roy-Bois from the Pacific region, Audie Murray from the Prairies region, Lotus L. Kang from the Ontario region, Caroline Monnet from the Quebec region, and Shane Perley-Dutcher from the Atlantic region. These artists work across different mediums such as textile art, sculpture, installation, and filmmaking, with four of them incorporating themes from their Indigenous heritage into their creations.
Jonathan Shaughnessy of the National Gallery of Canada, who chairs the Sobey Art Award jury, praised the artists for their innovative use of materials and their ability to draw from personal and cultural histories. The winner of the $100,000 grand prize will be announced on November 14 at a ceremony in Ottawa, following deliberation by a panel of curators and gallery professionals.
An exhibition featuring the finalists’ works will be held at the National Gallery of Canada, starting on September 4. Last year’s recipient was Tania Willard, known for her land-based art practice. The Sobey Art Award, established in 2002, aims to amplify the voices of Canada’s most compelling artistic talents and has evolved to remove the age restriction for eligibility since 2021.