The 2026 Sobey Art Award shortlist showcases the current landscape of contemporary art in Canada. The finalists were announced by the Sobey Art Foundation and the National Gallery of Canada. Selected from a group of previously identified hopefuls, the shortlist features six artists representing different regions across the country.
The nominees for the 2026 Sobey Art Award 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 work in diverse mediums such as textile art, sculpture, installation, and filmmaking. Notably, four out of the six finalists incorporate themes related to their Indigenous heritage in their artwork.
Jonathan Shaughnessy, the chair of the Sobey Art Award jury, described the shortlisted artists as a reflection of the dynamic contemporary visual art scene. He highlighted how their innovative use of materials is influenced by personal, cultural, and historical experiences.
The winner of the $100,000 grand prize will be revealed on November 14 at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, following deliberations by an independent jury. Prior to the announcement, the gallery will host an exhibition featuring the finalists’ works starting on September 4.
Last year’s award went to Tania Willard, known for her land-based art practice. Previous winners include Brian Jungen, Divya Mehra, Nico Williams, and Abbas Akhavan. The Sobey Art Award, established in 2002, aims to showcase and support Canada’s emerging artistic talents without an age restriction, as it was removed in 2021.