The shortlist for the prestigious 2026 Jarman Award has been unveiled, celebrating four British artists whose work is redefining contemporary moving-image art through ambitious storytelling and experimental filmmaking.

Recognised as one of the UK's leading honours for artist filmmakers, the award highlights creators whose work combines artistic innovation with deeply personal and socially relevant themes. This year's finalists explore topics ranging from migration and family history to cultural identity, health and collective memory.

Among the shortlisted artists is Sadia Pineda Hameed, whose work draws upon family archives, historical footage and migration narratives to examine personal and national histories. Her acclaimed project explores journeys across continents while reflecting on identity and belonging.

Also nominated is Alia Syed, a respected experimental filmmaker whose work often blends memory, family relationships and poetic visual storytelling. Her films continue to earn praise for their emotional depth and innovative approach to narrative.

Rhea Storr's shortlisted work examines carnival culture and Black British identity through visually striking imagery. By removing conventional sound elements, her film encourages audiences to focus on movement, performance and the relationship between culture and public space.

Completing the shortlist is Ilona Sagar, whose research-driven practice investigates health, industry and social history. Her work explores the long-term impact of industrial environments on communities while combining documentary techniques with artistic experimentation.

Judges praised the artists for their originality, research-driven practice and ability to transform lived experiences into compelling cinematic works.

Named after pioneering filmmaker Derek Jarman, the award has become one of the UK's most respected platforms for emerging and established artist filmmakers. Many previous nominees have gone on to receive major national and international recognition.

The winner of the 2026 award will be announced later this year, while exhibitions and screenings featuring the shortlisted artists are expected to tour across the UK, giving audiences the opportunity to experience some of the most exciting moving-image work being produced today.