Four Artists Shortlisted for 2026 Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award
The National Portrait Gallery has revealed the four finalists for its 44th annual Portrait Award, now known as the Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award. Chosen from a pool of over 1,474 submissions from 63 nations, the shortlisted pieces include: 'What’s Mine is Yours' (2024) by Chloe Cox, 'Jean-Denis' (2025) by Marc Dalessio, 'In Our Borderlands' (2025) by Joel Nichols, and 'Charlie and Magda' (2026) by Michael Slusakowicz. A free exhibition showcasing 52 portraits will run from 25 June to 7 October 2026. An anonymous judging panel comprised of Melissa Blanchflower, Es Devlin, Amy Emmerson Martin, and Mary Evans evaluated the entries. This award is esteemed as a significant platform for portrait artists.
Key facts
- Four artists shortlisted for 44th Portrait Award
- Award now named Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award
- Over 1,474 entries from 63 countries
- 52 portraits selected for final exhibition
- Exhibition runs 25 June to 7 October 2026
- Entries submitted anonymously
- Judging panel includes Melissa Blanchflower, Es Devlin, Amy Emmerson Martin, Mary Evans
- Shortlisted artists: Chloe Cox, Marc Dalessio, Joel Nichols, Michael Slusakowicz
Entities
Artists
- Chloe Cox
- Marc Dalessio
- Joel Nichols
- Michael Slusakowicz
- Es Devlin
- Mary Evans
Institutions
- National Portrait Gallery
- Turner Contemporary
- Slade School of Fine Art
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom