Lydia Balbal has been selected as a finalist in The King's School Art Prize 2026 for her stunning work Winpa.
Winpa is jila (living water) located near the Percival Lakes in the Great Sandy Desert in WA. It is an important gathering of the Yulparija and neighbouring groups. they would gather for rain making ceremonies. Lydia walked all around this country with her family until the early 1970's when severe drought caused her people to walk out.. They left their traditional country and headed to Le Grange Mission, now Bidyadanga community on the coast south of Broome. — Lydia Balbal, Artist Statement
The King’s School Art Prize is a prestigious and anticipated art prize within Sydney. Established in 1994, the gala event attracts entries from leading contemporary artists from across Australia.
The winner will be announced on Saturday 13 June.
