AXA XL and the Royal Academy of Arts Announce the 2026 AXA Art Prize UK

London - February 17, 2026

AXA XL is delighted to continue its partnership with the Royal Academy of Arts, London, for the 2026 edition of the AXA Art Prize UK. This esteemed award will recognise an outstanding figurative artwork exhibited during the RA’s 2026 Summer Exhibition, with a prize of £10,000 to support the artist’s creative journey.

The winner, selected from the entries showcased at the Summer Exhibition, will be announced in July 2026. This initiative highlights AXA XL’s enduring commitment to nurturing emerging talent and supporting the arts community worldwide, building on a 17-year legacy of fostering creativity and cultural preservation.

Sean McGovern, CEO UK & Lloyd’s Market at AXA XL, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: "Our collaboration with the Royal Academy of Arts exemplifies our dedication to empowering emerging artists and celebrating the vibrancy of UK art. We believe that supporting creative talent today helps shape the cultural landscape of tomorrow."

Simon Wallis, Secretary and Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Arts added: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with AXA XL and are deeply grateful for AXA XL’s support of the Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition Prizes with the AXA Art Prize UK. This prize will continue to recognise outstanding works in the world’s largest open-submission exhibition and this year we look forward to celebrating a major figurative work of art with the 2026 award.”

Jennifer Schipf, Global Chief Underwriting Officer for Fine Art & Specie at AXA XL, commented: "Collaborating with the Royal Academy of Arts aligns perfectly with our mission to protect and promote the arts. We’re honoured to support UK artists and contribute to a future where art continues to thrive and inspire."

AXA XL, a division of AXA, is one of the largest fine art insurers in the world. Our fine arts professionals have established a solid foundation based on years of industry expertise in understanding the value—both financial and sentimental—of safeguarding works of art, jewellery, and specie. With a global footprint that includes over 1,200 highly experienced, locally empowered claims professionals managing covered claims in more than 200 countries and territories, we’ll be there for you—wherever and whenever you need us. To learn more, please visit www.axaxl.com.

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ABOUT AXA XL
AXA XL provides insurance and risk management products and services for mid-sized companies through to large multinationals, and reinsurance solutions to insurance companies globally. We partner with those who move the world forward. To learn more, visit www.axaxl.com.

ABOUT AXA XL INSURANCE
AXA XL Insurance offers property, casualty, professional, financial lines and specialty insurance solutions to mid-sized companies through to large multinationals globally. We partner with those who move the world forward. To learn more, visit www.axaxl.com.

About the Royal Academy of Arts
The Royal Academy’s annual Summer Exhibition is the world’s largest open submission contemporary art show. Each year the Royal Academy of Arts presents a number of prizes for outstanding works within the Summer Exhibition. The Summer Exhibition 2023 will run from 13 June to 20 August 2023.

The Royal Academy of Arts was founded by King George III in 1768. It has a unique position in being an independent, privately funded institution led by eminent artists and architects whose purpose is to be a clear, strong voice for art and artists. Its public programme promotes the creation, enjoyment and appreciation of the visual arts through exhibitions, education and debate.

The Royal Academy is an independent charity. It does not receive revenue funding from the government so is reliant upon the support of its visitors, donors, sponsors, patrons and loyal Friends.

¹AXA XL is a division of AXA Group providing products and services through four business groups: AXA XL Insurance, AXA XL Reinsurance, AXA XL Art & Lifestyle and AXA XL Risk Consulting.