Three artworks created by Quebec artists have been placed among the 100 finalists for the CODA Awards' best public art category. The announcement, made in 2026, highlights the province’s strong representation in a competition that evaluates public art on a global scale. In total, six Canadian pieces earned a spot on the finalist list, meaning half of the national entries originate from Quebec.
The CODA Awards, organized by CODAworx, recognize the world’s most compelling public art projects each year. Selection panels assess entries for artistic merit, community impact and innovation. This year’s shortlist includes a diverse range of works from across Canada, with the three Quebec submissions joining three other Canadian entries from different provinces.
Toni Sikes of CODAworx noted that the presence of multiple Quebec pieces reflects the province’s vibrant public‑art scene and its ongoing commitment to integrating art into shared spaces. While the award ceremony will feature works from around the globe, the Canadian contingent, especially the Quebec contributions, will be closely watched by industry observers.
The finalists will be evaluated further before a single winner is chosen for the best public art prize. All 100 shortlisted projects will be showcased on CODAworx’s platform, allowing the public and professionals to view the breadth of contemporary public art. For the Quebec artists, inclusion in the top‑hundred list offers heightened visibility and the potential for future commissions, both domestically and internationally.
The CODA Awards continue to serve as a benchmark for excellence in public art, and the strong showing by Quebec creators underscores the province’s role in shaping the field. As the competition progresses, the final outcomes will add to the narrative of Canadian public art’s growing influence on the world stage.