Archibald, Wynne and Sulman 2026: A Must-See Event

By Yves Hernot, Chevalier ONM, FRSN

Jules François Archibald was a fascinating and deeply Francophile figure — which explains why the Archibald Prize has carried, since its creation, a distinctly Parisian spirit.

Born in Australia in 1856 under the name John Feltham Archibald, he later transformed his identity into “Jules François Archibald,” a gesture that clearly reflected his admiration for France and its culture.

Founder and editor of the famous newspaper The Bulletin, Archibald had a particular passion for Paris, intellectual cafés, European literature, and the French tradition of psychological portraiture.

In his will, he requested the creation of a prize intended to reward “the best portrait,” one capable of reflecting the character, intelligence, and personality of Australians. More than a simple art competition, he was almost dreaming of creating a human memory of modern Australia.

As a French national, patron of the arts, and descendant of a family that, since the Renaissance, already supported artists and artistic creation — just as one of my ancestors did with Leonardo da Vinci — I believe it is essential to participate each year in the Archibald Prize by supporting emerging Australian artists. Whether one agrees or disagrees with the judges’ choices, it is their right; we still live in a democracy, just as we also have the right to comment on or criticise their decisions. Here, the important thing is to participate.

This is what I have been doing for nearly five years: commissioning my portrait, financing these works, and guiding the selected artists, in a tradition reminiscent of the Medici family and other great patrons in the history of art. For it is essential that art continues to live, evolve, and inspire future generations.

This is also why the Archibald Prize represents a major event in the Australian artistic calendar, as important for artists as it is for visitors and for the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

I strongly encourage everyone to visit and discover the Archibald Prize, Wynne Prize, and Sulman Prize — three major awards bringing together 137 works displayed across several galleries of this magnificent museum: the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

You will leave feeling stimulated, inspired, and perhaps even transformed. It is up to you to decide which works touch you the most.

Have a great day.

Exhibition Dates
9 May 2026 – 16 August 2026

Address
Art Gallery of New South Wales

Following the exhibition at the Art Gallery, the Archibald Prize 2026 finalist works will tour to six venues across New South Wales and Victoria, offering audiences beyond Sydney the opportunity to experience this nationally celebrated portrait prize.

To explore the full list of finalists in the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2026, find out more about this year’s exhibition and purchase tickets, visit the Art Galery web site