Multidisciplinary artist Nico Williams, MFA 21, is the winner of the 2024 Sobey Art Award. Announced on November 9 at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, the prize, valued at $100,000, is the largest of its kind for contemporary visual arts in the country.
Photo credit: Cory Hunlin
Williams, a member of the Aamijiwnaang First Nation (Anishinaabe), is a beadwork sculptor whose art focuses on human connection with objects, place and language.
"It's with immense gratitude to receive the 2024 Sobey award," said Williams at the award ceremony. "Ten years ago, one of the most influential role models, Nadia Myre [MFA 02], received this prize. I want to send out the same message to all the bush kids out there, we are doing it! Also, I am extremely grateful to all the people who have stood behind my practice since the very beginning! I wouldn't be where I am today without you! Chi-miigwech!"
Established in 2002 by the Sobey Art Foundation, and now presented by the National Gallery of Canada, the Sobey Art Award showcases emerging artists from six regions across the nation. Williams, along with six fellow alumni, were named to the long list in May.
Williams's work is currently on display at the National Gallery of Canada as part of the 2024 Sobey Art Award exhibition until March 2025.
