Visual Arts Thematic - Future Figurations Residency
Banff CentreAbout This Opportunity
“Futurity as an anti-oppressive and restorative force; decolonizing ideas of the body as defined by Eurocentric and heteronormative conditions”
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.
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.
Scholarships are available.
Eligibility & Requirements
Geographic Eligibility
Disciplines
Age Requirements
18+ years old
Applicant Type
Individual artists and collectives
Additional Requirements
2-page resume or CV (group applications submit all resumes in one document). Artist Statement: 250 words describing concepts, themes and methodologies, what you hope to learn or achieve, and how your practice relates to the program theme. Project Proposal: 500 words covering conceptual framework, weekly execution plan, mediums and technical knowledge, and specific support requirements. Resource Requests form (via SlideRoom): outline all studio, equipment, software, facility or staff support required. Portfolio: 6–10 samples of artistic work. Financial Aid form to be completed in SlideRoom to be eligible for scholarships.
Note
Must be 18+ at program start. For individual artists or duos (maximum 2 collaborators). Must have completed formal training in visual arts at the post-secondary level, or equivalent experience and recognition through traditional knowledge and practices. Priority given to artists who have not attended a Visual Arts residency at Banff Centre in the past three years. Variable/partial dates not considered — full program participation required. Children not permitted in studios or production areas. International applicants must obtain a Visitor Visa (Banff Centre programs do not meet requirements for a Canadian Student Visa).
Compensation & Benefits
Overview
Scholarships are available.
What's Provided
Housing Provided
Single bedroom on the Banff Centre campus for the duration of the program.
Studio Access
Individual private studios assigned to participants, with access to shared production facilities. Facility access based on availability of facilitators; priority given to those requesting access in initial applications. See Visual Arts Facilities Booklet for detailed equipment list.
Selection Process
Participants are chosen by an adjudication panel comprising internal and external assessors. Programs are highly competitive with a limited number of places. Applicants are notified upon completion of adjudication; individual feedback is not provided due to high application volume.
Evaluation Criteria
- 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
Jury Members
Rajni Perera
Marigold Santos
Timeline
Deadline
June 3, 2026
Program Dates
January 25, 2027– February 26, 2027
