Please note that the program application functionality for all Banff Centre programs will be temporarily turned off for our seasonal closure at 4pm on Thursday 18th December, until noon on Monday 5th January. No new applications or payments may be made during this period. Please note that for adjudicated programs, if you are already in progress at portfolio submission, you can continue with your application in SlideRoom. If you have not yet started your application, please see the list of materials required below step 2, in order to be ready for when applications re-open in January. We wish you a safe and happy holiday season!

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Banff International Curatorial Institute: Curating While Black

A Research-based Residency for Black Curators
Application Deadline
May 13, 2026
Program Dates -
Arrive
Depart

 

Online: January 25 to 29, 2027
On Campus: February 1 to 12, 2027

 

Program Information

2026 Banff International Curatorial Institute Faculty

From left: Sally Frater, Michelle Jacques, and Crystal Mowry.

Overview  

Curating While Black is a residency and embedded symposia intended for Black curators interested in moving forward an individual research project in tandem with participation in group discussions and learning opportunities amongst the cohort and with program faculty.

This hybrid program begins with one week online followed by two weeks in person at Banff Centre, presented through the Banff International Curatorial Institute (BICI). Organized though Walter Phillips Gallery, BICI provides research-based programs for curators, arts writers, theorists, artists, and academics to explore curatorial research, pedagogy and practice, visual art criticism, and writing.

Description

Co-led by faculty Sally Frater, Michelle Jacques, and Crystal Mowry, this residency supports curators in developing individual projects while engaging in dialogue and exchange through:

  • One-on-one feedback on your curatorial research.
  • Opportunities for learning and discussion through faculty talks and peer gatherings.
  • Conversations throughout the program and in the embedded symposia on contemporary curatorial practice with faculty and peers.
  • Independent writing studios and dedicated space for focused research and reflection.
  • Cross-program connections with intentional opportunities to connect with artists in concurrent residencies on campus.

Requirements

The program is intended for Black curators with demonstrated professional experience within the field of visual arts and material culture, performance, film and video, and public programming.

The program is open to curators with institutional affiliations or independent curatorial practices. 

Collaborative groups of no more than two are welcome to apply.

Eligibility

Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. 

Domestic and international applications are welcome.

Visa Eligibility Information: 

  • Please note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa.
  • If you are accepted into our program, you must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada. Accepted participants are responsible for identifying and complying with the immigration requirements to enter Canada as a visitor from their country of origin. If you require a Visitor Visa please check the current expected processing times well in advance of applying.

Inclusivity Statement

We welcome applicants who identify as Black (18+), of all backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. 

*Please note that while children are welcomed in public spaces on campus they are not permitted in studios. 

Itinerary

Week One (online):

  • January 25: 

Program orientation and introductions

Faculty Lecture

  • January 28:

Participant project introductions

Week Two (in person):

  • February 1:

Orientation

Faculty Lecture

  • February 5:

Faculty Lecture

Week Three (in person): 

  • February 11:

Symposia

*Faculty one-on-one meetings scheduled at various times throughout three week program. 

Dates are subject to change.

 

Faculty

Headshot of Michelle Jacques

Michelle Jacques

Faculty, Jan 25 - Feb 12, 2027

Headshot of Crystal Mowry

Crystal Mowry

Faculty, Jan 25 - 29 and Feb 8 - 12, 2027

Technical Requirements

Online access

Access to Zoom with a camera, microphone, speakers, and/or headsets and internet connection are required for week one.

What's Included

Meal Plan Icon
Meal Plan Read more Close

The meal plan is equivalent to $68 credit per day, equivalent to two meals at our Buffet service.

Using a credit-based system to dine on campus, our flexible meal plans allow you to select meals according to your own needs during your stay. Banff Centre can respond to most dietary requests. 

Accommodations
Accommodation Read more Close

Your program fee includes a single bedroom on the Banff Centre campus for the duration of your program.

Get connected with other artists on campus and focus on your projects in a creative environment while we take care of the day-to-day essentials.

Visual arts icon
Studio Space Read more Close

Create in the privacy of one of our specialized studios.

Think Bubbles Icon
Group Seminars/Workshops Read more Close

Group seminars and workshops with faculty.

Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives Read more Close

The Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives are delighted to support Banff Centre Participants, Artists, and Faculty

Campus Facilities Read more Close
  • Participant Resources: Enrich your experience and get to know other artists on campus by taking advantage of the activities and support provided. 
  • Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre: Your program fee includes free access to the swimming pool, climbing gym and fitness suite as well as discounted rates for classes. 
  • Box Office Discounts: Enjoy special artist rates or complimentary access for ticketed performances.

Fees & Financial Assistance

Total Fee Before Scholarships for tuition, accommodation and a meal plan (per person)
$4 153.80
Scholarship Amount Applied (per person)
$2 444.14
Total You Pay After Scholarship (per person)
$1 709.66

Application Fee

$65 for individuals or groups, $35 for applicants who identify as Indigenous.

This non-refundable fee covers the full cost of processing your application, including the SlideRoom fee.

Scholarships

We are pleased to offer a range of scholarships to support participants in our programs. Details are outlined below:

  • Banff Centre Arts Scholarship: All arts participants receive a scholarship covering 100% of tuition and 25% of meal plan and accommodation costs, made possible through generous endowments and donations.
  • Canadian Indigenous Scholarship: Canadian Indigenous applicants receive support covering 100% of tuition, meal plan and accommodation costs. 

To be considered for Banff Centre scholarships, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials.

Explore additional ways to fund your experience by reviewing our curated list of national and international opportunities here.

Cancellations

Information on our cancellation policy can be found here.

Tax Information

Banff Centre will issue official tax receipts for eligible tuition fees and financial assistance and awards as required by the Income Tax Act. You will receive a T2202 (Tuition and Enrolment Certificate) for eligible tuition fees paid and a T4A (Statement of Pension, Retirement, Annuity, and Other Income) for applicable financial assistance and awards.

How to Apply

Learn more about the steps to Complete Your Application.

Holiday Closure

The student application and payment system is now closed for the institutional rest period. It will reopen at noon on Monday 5th January. The Admissions Office closes Thursday 18th December and reopens Monday 5th January.

Step 1:

Application Temporarily Unavailable

Step 2:

Application Temporarily Unavailable

Resume

A two-page resume or C.V. describing academic, professional, and other relevant experience.

Group applications should submit all resumes in one document. 

Cover Letter

A one-page cover letter explaining why you are interested in this program and what you hope to achieve by attending it.

Project Proposal

Provide a one-page description of your proposed project, including the theme, and relevance to the program.

Portfolio

Please provide up to ten images of past curatorial projects or exhibitions that you organized, and a 1-2 page document with a description of a past curatorial project that is reflective of your practice.

Financial Assistance

Be sure to complete the Financial Aid question in SlideRoom to be eligible for the financial assistance.

Group Applications

Collaborative groups of no more than two are welcome to apply. The lead applicant should complete:

  • Step 1: One application form
  • Step 2: Pay the $65 processing fee on behalf of the group
  • Step 3: One SlideRoom application

Note: An additional $35 registration fee will be added for each member upon acceptance to the program.

Adjudication

Participants are chosen by an adjudication panel comprising of internal and external assessors. The selection criteria include:

  • Quality, originality and artistic merit.
  • Required skills and experience.
  • The potential for the applicant's work to benefit from the program.
  • Banff Centre’s ability to support the project.

Our programs are highly competitive with a limited number of places available. Applicants will be notified of their selection status as soon as the adjudication process is complete. Due to the high volume of applications individual feedback will not be provided. 

Disclaimer

All programs, faculty, dates, fees, and offers of financial assistance are subject to change. Program fee is subject to applicable taxes. Non-refundable fees and deposits will be retained upon cancellation. Any other fees are refunded at the discretion of the Banff Centre. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. Mountain Standard Time.

Contact Admissions

For questions on preparing your application, please contact Admissions:

Toll Free Number (Canada + USA)
1.800.565.9989
Phone
403.762.6180
Application Deadline
May 13, 2026
Program Dates -
Arrive
Depart

 

Online: January 25 to 29, 2027
On Campus: February 1 to 12, 2027