"2026 Sobey Art Award Finalists Showcase Canada's Diverse Talent"

Curious about the current state of contemporary art in Canada? Look no further than the lineup for the 2026 Sobey Art Award.

This morning, the Sobey Art Foundation and the National Gallery of Canada unveiled the latest group of finalists. Chosen from a selection of previously identified contenders, the shortlist features representatives from six different regions.

The contenders for the 2026 Sobey Art Award include:

Melaw Nakehk’o, representing the Circumpolar region

Artwork featuring a hand and arm bending around to itself, made of caribou hide, beaver fur, and beads. — Melaw Nakehk’o. Untitled (shapeshift), 2024. (Michael Patten)

Samuel Roy-Bois, representing the Pacific region

Artwork showing grey flat material balanced on a small carved sculpture. — Samuel Roy-Bois. Commercial Street, 2025. (Nanaimo Art Gallery)

Audie Murray, representing the Prairies region

Two beaded leatherworks. — Audie Murray. Net Charm; < and Net Charm; >, 2025. (Audie Murray)

Lotus L. Kang, representing the Ontario region

Artwork resembling a greenhouse with items inside. — Lotus L. Kang. Receiver Transmitter (49 Echoes I), 2022–25 (Lotus L. Kang)

Caroline Monnet, representing the Quebec region

Large blue and gold embroidery hanging on a gallery wall. — Caroline Monnet. Kà-bimose magak Sibi (The River That Walks), 2023. (Toni Hafkenscheid)

Shane Perley-Dutcher, representing the Atlantic region

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