Archibald Prize 2026 finalist, Betina Fauvel-Ogden ‘Pride’, oil on linen, 65.3 x 50.2 cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter. Sitter: Gabrielle Wang
One of Australia’s best-known art exhibitions is coming to Moree this week, with the Archibald Prize 2026 opening at Bank Art Museum Moree (BAMM) on Thursday, November 12.
The touring exhibition will bring the finalists from this year’s Archibald Prize to Moree, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to see works selected for one of the country’s most prestigious portrait painting awards.
The exhibition opens at 6pm on Thursday, with doors opening at 5.30pm. Wayne Tunnicliffe, Director of Collections and Exhibitions at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, will officially open the show.
First awarded in 1921, the Archibald Prize recognises portrait paintings of people from across Australian life. The winner receives $100,000, with the prize judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
This year’s competition attracted 1,034 entries, with 59 artists selected as finalists. Richard Lewer won the 2026 prize for his portrait Iluwanti Ken, depicting the Pitjantjatjara elder and artist.
Annabelle Simpson, Chair of the Moree Cultural Art Foundation, said hosting the exhibition was a significant opportunity for the town and surrounding region.
“Bringing the Archibald Prize to Moree is an extraordinary opportunity for our town and the wider region,” Ms Simpson said.
“To experience some of Australia’s most celebrated portraits right here in our community is something we can all be incredibly proud of.”
The exhibition will also feature finalists from BAMM’s local Young Archie competition, giving young artists aged five to 18 the opportunity to have their work displayed alongside the national exhibition.
Young artists were invited to create an A3 portrait of someone special to them who plays an important role in their life.
The competition has four age categories, covering ages five to eight, nine to 12, 13 to 15 and 16 to 18. A judging panel will select one winner from each category, with prizes provided by the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
The Archibald Prize 2026 touring exhibition will remain at BAMM until Saturday, December 19.
Admission is $10, with free entry for children under 15.
BAMM is located at 25 Frome Street, Moree. Further exhibition information is available through the BAMM website.
