Toronto-born artist Lotus L. Kang wins $100,000 2026 Sobey Art Award

Toronto-born artist Lotus L. Kang has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Sobey Art Award, a significant honor for contemporary Canadian art. The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa hosted a ceremony where Kang was presented with the $100,000 grand prize. The jury commended Kang for her decade-long dedication to her art and the increasing international acclaim of her work, which typically integrates photographic film, found objects, and everyday materials.

Five other artists, Melaw Nakehk’o, Samuel Roy-Bois, Audie Murray, Caroline Monnet, and Shane Perley-Dutcher, were also shortlisted. Each of them will receive $25,000, adding to the total award value of $465,000. The award, now in its 23rd year, acknowledges Canadian contemporary artists at critical junctures in their careers. The works of all six finalists are currently on exhibition at the National Gallery until January 3rd, 2027. This information, reported by The Canadian Press, was originally published on November 15th, 2026.