Contemporary Canadian art is on display through the 2026 Sobey Art Award shortlist announcement. The finalists for this prestigious award were unveiled by the Sobey Art Foundation and the National Gallery of Canada. The shortlist showcases artists from six different regions across Canada.
The nominees for the 2026 Sobey Art Award include Melaw Nakehk’o representing the Circumpolar region with their piece “Untitled (shapeshift), 2024.” Samuel Roy-Bois from the Pacific region presents “Commercial Street, 2025.” Audie Murray, from the Prairies region, showcases “Net Charm; , 2025.” Lotus L. Kang, hailing from the Ontario region, displays “Receiver Transmitter (49 Echoes I), 2022–25.” Caroline Monnet, representing the Quebec region, presents “Kà-bimose magak Sibi (The River That Walks), 2023.” Shane Perley-Dutcher, from the Atlantic region, shares “The Crown, 2023.”
These artists exhibit a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including textile art, sculpture, installation, and filmmaking. Four out of the six artists explore themes related to their Indigenous heritage in their artwork.
Jonathan Shaughnessy of the NGC, who chairs the Sobey Art Award jury, describes the shortlisted artists as a reflection of contemporary visual practice. The artists’ innovative use of materials and deep personal, cultural, and material histories shape their compelling artworks.
The winner of the $100,000 grand prize will be announced on Nov. 14 at the NGC in Ottawa following deliberation by an independent jury. Prior to the announcement, the gallery will host an exhibition featuring the finalists’ works, opening on Sept. 4 in Ottawa.
Tania Willard, a Secwépemc artist, was the recipient of last year’s award. Past winners include Brian Jungen (2002), Divya Mehra (2022), Nico Williams (2024), and Abbas Akhavan (2015), who currently represents Canada at the Venice Biennale.
Established in 2002, the Sobey Art Award initially honored Canadian artists under 40. However, in 2021, the age restriction was lifted to provide a platform for Canada’s diverse artistic voices.