In Canada, the current landscape of contemporary art is vividly captured in the 2026 Sobey Art Award shortlist. The finalists for this prestigious award, announced by the Sobey Art Foundation and the National Gallery of Canada, represent a diverse array of six home regions.
The 2026 Sobey Art Award nominees include 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 engage in various artistic disciplines such as textile art, sculpture, installation, and filmmaking, showcasing the breadth of their creative expressions. Notably, four out of the six finalists draw inspiration from and explore their Indigenous heritage in their artworks.
Jonathan Shaughnessy, chair of the Sobey Art Award jury, praised the shortlisted artists, stating that they represent a dynamic cross-section of contemporary visual practice. Their innovative use of materials reflects deep personal, cultural, and historical experiences, shaping their artworks in profound ways.
An independent jury comprising curators and gallery professionals will determine the recipient of the $100,000 grand prize, which will be announced on Nov. 14 at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa. Prior to the award announcement, a group exhibition featuring the finalists’ works will be on display at the gallery starting September 4.
Tania Willard, a Secwépemc artist known for her land-based art practice, was the previous year’s Sobey Art Award recipient. Past winners include renowned artists like Brian Jungen, Divya Mehra, Nico Williams, and Abbas Akhavan, who represented Canada at the Venice Biennale in 2015.
Established in 2002, the Sobey Art Award previously honored Canadian artists under 40, but the age restriction was lifted in 2021. The award’s mission is to amplify the voices of Canada’s most impactful artistic talents.