Visual Arts Thematic - Future Figurations Residency

Overview  

Drawing on ideas of speculative futures, science-fiction, myth-making and world-building, artists are invited to research, imagine and create possible selves and possible worlds, exploring concepts of embodied futurity. 

In this program, the concept of futurity is considered as an anti-oppressive and restorative force – of hope and possibility. By decolonizing ideas of the body as defined by Eurocentric and heteronormative conditions, new possibilities of selfhood, agency and self-reclamation are considered. 

This residency runs concurrently with programs in Indigenous Arts and Literary Arts, exploring related concepts. Cross-disciplinary learning and exchange is encouraged.

Description

Visual Arts residencies at Banff Centre are structured programs of faculty-led activity and mentorship, supporting project-based studio practice. Participants will be mentored by accomplished faculty through research, experimentation and hands-on learning.

This program supports: 

• the development of conceptual thought and creative skills through faculty supported research-creation
• the development of technical skills through skill-based experimentation 
• faculty-led workshops to foster critical thought and professional development
• cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary engagement with international faculty and participants
• peer engagement that fosters a professional community towards supporting and sustaining an artistic career.

Studio-based work is further supported by faculty studio visits, lectures, and workshops, fostering a valuable community of learning. Artists are assigned individual studios with access to shared production facilities. 

Please take note of the program itinerary when planning your project proposal. 

Facility access is based on availability of facilitators and priority goes to those requesting access in their initial applications. 

Requirements 

This residency is for individual artists or duos (no more than two collaborators) who have: 

• completed formal training in visual arts at the post-secondary level, or
• equivalent experience and recognition from their peers acquired through traditional knowledge and practices.

Artists working in, but not limited to, practices in

• ceramics
• digital media
• painting, drawing, printmaking and papermaking
• photography
• sculpture and installation 

are invited to apply. 

Priority will be given to artists who have not attended a Visual Arts residency at Banff Centre in the past three years. 

Please note that children are not permitted in visual arts studios or production areas.

This program is designed for participation over the entire program period. Variable dates will not be considered.

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 of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply. Artists from historically underrepresented and equity deserving groups are especially welcome.