Freelands Painting Prize 2026 Exhibition Preview

Join us for the exhibition preview of the Freelands Painting Prize 2026 for a first look at the works on display.

The Freelands Painting Prize exhibition brings together the work of twelve artists who have recently graduated from art schools and universities across the UK – celebrating fresh perspectives and ambitious new work, while offering a glimpse into the future of contemporary painting.

^{Header image: Lucy Grant, Blue Velvet Three, 2026 (detail).} 

• Charli-Ann Padilla, University of the West of England. 
• Dexter Landesman-Chung, City & Guilds of London Art School. 
• Karlien De Mot, The Art Academy, London. 
• Lucy Grant, Winchester School of Art, University of Southampton. 
• Molly Tomlinson, University of Northampton. 
• Naomi Ashall, University of Chichester. 
• Rajesh Bhovan, Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London. 
• Richie Batchelor, Coventry University. 
• Robert McLeod, University of Salford. 
• Sandy Kiralawella, Newcastle University. 
• Topaz Joelle, University of Lincoln. 
• Yuchen Zhan, University of Brighton.

The Freelands Painting Prize celebrates outstanding painting by final-year undergraduate artists attending art schools and universities across the UK. 

The winner is announced in Autumn, at the opening of an exhibition of works by all of the shortlisted artists’ work at the Foundation’s home in London. They receive a prize from Freelands Painting Prize partners Wallace Seymour, makers of high-quality painting and drawing materials, of a consultation and £1,000 worth of materials. 

Date: Tuesday 6 October, 2026.

Time: 6.30 - 8.30pm. 

This event is free and open to all. Please book a place. 

Address:
Freelands Foundation   
12 Errol Street   
London, EC1Y 8LX  

For exact location, use what3words: timing.settle.handle  

Exhibition opening times:
7 – 31 October 2026, Wednesday – Saturday, 12 – 6pm

Visit our website for more information.

Accessibility:
Find our full visitor information details at freelandsfoundation.co.uk/visit  

Should you have any access requirements ahead of your visit, please contact us via [email protected] or (+44) 020 3598 7081.