Richard Lewer has been awarded the 2026 Archibald Prize for his portrait of Pitjantjatjara elder, traditional healer, and senior artist Iluwanti Ken. The New Zealand-born, Melbourne-based artist, a six-time Archibald finalist, was announced as the winner on May 8, 2026, at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
The winning portrait, titled 'Iluwanti Ken', depicts the artist in a vibrant, patterned dress against a dark background. Lewer, known for his expressive and often darkly humorous style, said he was drawn to Ken's strength and resilience. The prize includes A$100,000.
Iluwanti Ken is a highly respected Pitjantjatjara elder from the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia. She is a senior artist at the Tjungu Palya art centre and is known for her work in painting and sculpture, often depicting stories from her Country.
The Archibald Prize is Australia's most prestigious portraiture award, judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of New South Wales. This year's exhibition features 52 finalists and runs from May 9 to September 6, 2026.
