Archibald Prize 2026

Archibald Prize 2026

5 September - 1 November 2026

Australia’s favourite and most significant art award is coming to Shepparton!

The annual Archibald Prize is eagerly anticipated by artists and audiences alike. Judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, the prize is awarded to the best portrait painting. Since 1921, it has highlighted figures from all walks of life, from famous faces to local heroes, reflecting back to us the stories of our times.

This touring exhibition from the Art Gallery of New South Wales is an opportunity to see the finalists in the Archibald Prize 2026.

Read our full media release announcing the arrival of this significant exhibition here.

Archibald Prize 2026 will be a ticketed exhibition.

More details on ticketing will be announced soon.

To register your interest for tickets, sign up to our mailing list below:

Sign up to our mailing list

Ticketing information, including prices and packages, will be announced in the coming months. 

Information regarding double-pass tickets to view both Facing Modernity and Archibald Prize 2026 in September will also be announced at a later date.

To enquire about a group booking for Archibald Prize 2026, please get in touch with us via email at bookings@sheppartonartmuseum.com.au or call 03 4804 5000. When making an enquiry, let us know if you are planning a self-guided visit, or are seeking a guided tour. 

For bookings of guided tours for school groups, please get in touch via email at education@sheppartonartmuseum.com.au.

Plan your trip to Shepparton

Are you travelling to SAM from outside the Goulburn Valley? Head to our Plan Your Visit page to find out information on:

Elsewhere at SAM café

If you plan to visit our onsite café, Elsewhere at SAM, before or after you view the exhibition, we highly recommend booking a table ahead of time. To book a table and find out more information about Elsewhere at SAM, visit their website.

Top image: Visitors in the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2025 exhibition, at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Ken Leanfore

Location: Level 2, SAM

Free admission