October 1st, 2026GO BEYOND THE PORTRAIT DURING ARCHIBALD PRIZE 2026 WITH UNIQUE ART ENCOUNTERS AT SAM THIS MONTH

Explore the Archibald Prize through the eyes of the artists at Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) through a weekend of dynamic artist-led talks and tours in October.

Now showing until 1 November, all 59 finalist works in this year’s edition of Australia’s beloved portrait prize are currently on display at SAM for the exclusive Victorian leg of its regional tour. Across 16, 17 & 18 October, visitors can immerse themselves in a weekend of culture at SAM, beginning with evening drinks on the SAM rooftop terrace with Bar SAM, followed by a series of talks and tours from 2026 Archibald Prize finalists Peter Wegner, Natasha Bieniek, Juan Ford, and Sean Layh.

Unfolding over two days, the accomplished artists will present in-gallery talks and welcome questions from visitors, giving audiences unique insights into their creative practices and illuminating the unseen triumphs and tribulations of creating portraits for the Archibald Prize.

SAM Head of Engagement, Gabriella Calandro, said the Archibald Prize 2026touring exhibition was a major coup for Shepparton and the surrounding region.

“It’s wonderful to see the Archibald Prize 2026 now alive in Shepparton, bringing audiences from near and far to the Goulburn Valley region. Our programs are an opportunity to go beyond simply viewing the portraits, providing art lovers the chance to dive deep into the artists’ processes, have creative conversations, and enjoy the unique experiences we have to offer. There are plenty of reasons to visit SAM this spring!”

Bar SAM at Archibald Prize 2026
Friday 16 October, 5pm – 8pm
Tickets: $16 per person (strictly 18+), includes a drink on arrival with additional drinks and bar snacks available for purchase.

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SAM Talk: Beyond The Portrait – Meet the Archibald Prize 2026 Finalists
Saturday 17 October
Sean Layh: 10am – 11am illustrated lecture; 11.30am – 12noon Gallery meet & greet
Natasha Bieniek: 1pm – 1.30pm Gallery meet & greet; 2pm – 3pm illustrated lecture

Sunday 18 October
Juan Ford: 10am – 11am illustrated lecture; 11.30am – 12noon Gallery meet & greet
Peter Wegner: 1pm – 1.30pm Gallery meet & greet; 2pm – 3pm illustrated lecture

Tickets: $100 weekend pass / $50 single day pass / $16 individual talk

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Archibald Prize 2026 is showing at Shepparton Art Museum until 1 November. To book tickets and programs visit sheppartonartmuseum.com.au