Robert Fielding Wins 2026 Hadley's Art Prize, Frieze Seoul Reveals New Headline Partner

Artist Robert Fielding, whose practice blends Aboriginal heritage with contemporary techniques, has been named the winner of the 2026 Hadley's Art Prize. The prize, one of Australia's most generous for landscape painting, annually honors a work that celebrates Australian identity. Fielding, born in 1969 in Mimili, South Australia, is known for canvases that weave traditional motifs with pressing social concerns, such as reconciliation and the environment.

The announcement was made on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, according to ArtAsiaPacific's weekly news roundup. The prize amount was not disclosed, but previous editions have offered AUD 100,000. The award adds to a career already marked by numerous exhibitions, notably at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney and at international fairs. Fielding, a member of the Aṉangu peoples, draws inspiration from the arid lands of the APY region, transforming them into vibrant fields of color.

Separately, Frieze Seoul has unveiled the name of its new headline partner for its upcoming edition, which will take place at the COEX in Gangnam in September 2026. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen the fair's presence in Asia's booming art market. Meanwhile, Kiaf SEOUL, Korea's oldest art fair, has announced the exhibitor list for its 25th edition, which will run concurrently with Frieze Seoul, confirming the dynamism of Seoul's art scene.

These announcements come amid a period of growth in the Asian art market, where Seoul is emerging as a key hub. Collectors and galleries from around the world converge on the South Korean capital each September, creating a synergy between the two fairs. Fielding's participation, though not directly tied to these events, highlights the vitality of Australian Aboriginal art on the international stage.

Looking ahead, the Hadley's Prize award ceremony will take place later this year, and the Seoul fairs will open in September. Art enthusiasts can view Fielding's work and those of other finalists at the annual prize exhibition held at the Art Gallery of Ballarat.

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Written by the ADM desk based on ArtAsiaPacific. Read the original article for the full story.