Chukwudubem Ukaigwe Shortlisted for Sobey Art Award 2025

Artist, curator, and writer Chukwudubem Ukaigwe has been shortlisted to represent the Prairies region for the highly esteemed Sobey Art Award 2025. This recognition places him among a select group of six artists showcasing their work at the National Gallery of Canada as part of the 2025 Sobey Art Award Exhibition, which runs until February 8, 2026.

The Sobey Art Award is regarded as one of the largest and most significant Canadian prizes for contemporary visual artists. Shortlisted artists receive $25,000, while those who remain on the longlist of 25 are awarded $10,000. The ultimate winner, to be announced on November 8, 2025, will receive a substantial $100,000, a prize that can significantly elevate an artist’s career.

Ukaigwe’s Artistic Journey

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1995, Ukaigwe has spent several years in Canada, earning a bachelor of fine arts from the University of Manitoba. He is currently pursuing graduate studies at Stanford University in California. His work has garnered attention not only across the Prairies but also internationally, with exhibitions in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and the Netherlands.

Ukaigwe’s artistic portfolio includes a diverse range of mediums such as paintings, installations, performance, and video works. He is particularly acclaimed for his paintings, which are distinguished by their intricate detail and vibrant colors. His work often merges elements of realism, pop art, and surrealism, creating a unique visual language that resonates with viewers.

The installation currently on display at the National Gallery explores Ukaigwe’s internal conflicts while addressing external influences on Black communities. It features a striking painting placed on a pair of speakers, which play a track of songs and spoken word addressing themes of the extra planetary, including a piece by renowned jazz musician Charles Mingus.

Recognition Among Peers

Ukaigwe’s recognition as a finalist in this prestigious award places him alongside other notable artists, including Tarralik Duffy, who has been shortlisted for the Circumpolar region. Duffy, an Inuk artist, gained acclaim for her jerrycan sculptures and playful drawings portraying life in Nunavut.

The Sobey Art Award continues to spotlight emerging and established talent in the Canadian art scene, providing a platform for artists to gain not only financial support but also significant visibility within the international art community. Ukaigwe’s journey and achievements highlight the importance of such recognition in shaping the careers of contemporary artists.

As the art world eagerly awaits the announcement of the award’s winner, Ukaigwe’s work stands as a testament to the vibrant and diverse cultural landscape of Canada, particularly from the Prairies region. His artistic contributions are reflective of broader narratives and issues, making him a compelling figure in contemporary art.