The Orlando Museum of Art has unveiled the artist lineup for the 2026 Florida Prize in Contemporary Art, scheduled to run from May 30 through August 23. This 12th edition marks the largest in the program's history, featuring 12 artists including Maria Theresa Barbist, Jason Hackenwerth, and the duo We Are Nice’n Easy. The exhibition will culminate in a $20,000 grand prize awarded by juror Jade Powers, alongside a $2,500 People’s Choice Award.
This announcement underscores the museum's commitment to elevating regional talent within the broader contemporary art discourse. By featuring artists with diverse international roots—including Cuba, Denmark, and Austria—the prize highlights Florida as a critical crossroads for themes of environmental politics, Afro-Caribbean traditions, and wellness culture. The inclusion of large-scale installations and immersive environments reflects a continued institutional push toward engaging, multidisciplinary public programming.