Alexander Koch Wins 2026 ACS Studio Prize at Gurr Johns
For the fourth consecutive year, Gurr Johns was delighted to host the Artists’ Collecting Society (ACS) Annual Studio Prize at our 16 Pall Mall gallery. We are proud of our ongoing partnership with ACS and our shared commitment to supporting emerging artists.
Beyond providing exhibition space for the shortlisted finalists, our team actively mentors the artists as they begin navigating relationships with gallerists and collectors. Drawing on extensive experience across auction houses, galleries, and advisories, Gurr Johns offers valuable commercial insights to guide these talented graduates into the art market.
The exhibition opened to invited guests at the Private View held on 22nd September, where distinguished judges David Dawson, Sir Gabriele Finaldi, Philip Mould OBE, and Viscountess Bridgeman CBE selected this year’s winner.
Alexander Koch: 2026 ACS Studio Prize Winner
Alexander Koch was announced as the winner of the 2026 ACS Studio Prize. An Italian-Dutch visual artist, Koch graduated from the Royal Academy of Art, The Hague (2022) and the Royal College of Art, London (2026).
As winner, Koch receives a £6,000 grant specifically designed to offset the rising cost of workspace. By providing critical funding to secure a dedicated UK studio of his choice, the prize offers the spatial freedom, financial security, and independence needed to maintain momentum and expand his practice post-graduation.
“I am incredibly honored to receive the prize, especially after so many great candidates took part in this award. To have been awarded such support through the ACS by such esteemed judges, I truly feel appreciated and thankful. The prize is coming at a terribly important time of my career, as I was scared I wouldn't be able to deal with London's financial circumstances. To be able to stay in London and keep painting, I can't stress how much of a privilege that is. On that note, I will use this precious time and work hard towards my upcoming shows. ” – Alexander Koch, Winner of the Artists Collecting Society Annual Studio Prize 2026.
Born in Auch, France, to classical ballet dancers, Koch was raised at the intersection of fine art traditions and digital entertainment. He draws inspiration from both worlds, merging them through painting.
In his practice, Koch brings together memories, dreams, and future ideas, 'activating' them in the present. The rendering of landscapes in his paintings represents a mental space, a dialogue between memory and medium deeply rooted in his childhood spent outdoors.
We would also like to recognise this year's four fellow finalists:
Supporting the Next Generation of Artists
Alongside the exhibition, the shortlisted finalists participated in an art panel discussion designed to equip them with essential tools for their long-term careers. The programme featured an interactive panel with Millie Jason Foster (Founding Director, Gillian Jason Gallery) and Anthony McNerney (Director of Contemporary Art, Gurr Johns), moderated by ACS Managing Director Kimberley Ahrens, offering practical guidance on navigating gallery representation and contract negotiation. Additionally, Susan Davis (Founder of Art City Works and former Global Social Lead at Artsy and Artnet) led a session on building a strategic online presence, while Kimberley Ahrens closed the series with an insightful session on securing copyright, maximizing Artist Resale Right (ARR) earnings, and leveraging ACS services to protect and sustain their practice.
“Gurr Johns was delighted to partner once again with the Artist Collecting Society to support this vital award for emerging artists. At a time when economic uncertainty and rising living costs present significant hurdles for early-career creatives, providing artists with the financial space and resources to thrive is essential. Nurturing the next generation of talent is not just an investment in individual artists, it is fundamental to sustaining the UK’s position as a dynamic, world-leading cultural hub.” - Spencer Ewen, Senior Director at Gurr Johns
Congratulations once again to Alexander, Benjamin, Rachel, Bunny, and Samah. It was a pleasure to host your work, and we look forward to following your careers.
