Canada’s contemporary art scene is on display in the 2026 Sobey Art Award shortlist. The Sobey Art Foundation and the National Gallery of Canada unveiled the finalists, representing diverse regions across the country. The nominees for this prestigious 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 showcase a wide range of artistic disciplines, such as textile art, sculpture, installation, and filmmaking, reflecting their unique perspectives and backgrounds. Notably, four of the six artists draw inspiration from their Indigenous heritage in their creations.
Describing this year’s selection, Jonathan Shaughnessy of the National Gallery of Canada and the Sobey Art Award jury chair, emphasized the innovative and transformative nature of the artists’ works. The artworks delve into personal, cultural, and material histories, shaping a dynamic visual narrative.
A $100,000 grand prize awaits the winner, to be announced on November 14 at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa. Prior to the announcement, the gallery will host an exhibition featuring the finalists’ artworks starting from September 4.
The previous year’s recipient was Tania Willard, celebrated for her land-based art practice. Past winners of the Sobey Art Award include Brian Jungen, Divya Mehra, Nico Williams, and Abbas Akhavan, who is currently representing Canada at the Venice Biennale.
Established in 2002, the Sobey Art Award was historically limited to Canadian artists under 40 until the age restriction was lifted in 2021. The award serves as a platform for Canada’s most significant artistic voices, showcasing the country’s vibrant and evolving art landscape.