A Launch Pad for Emerging Artists
Apply to Harbourfront Centre's Craft & Design Residency program, a studio-based incubator for emerging artists.
Our program is the only long-term Canadian residency supporting contemporary craft and design, helping artists and makers build professional experience and foster the skills and networks needed to develop a sustainable creative career.
The program is open to post-graduates and emerging makers with equivalent training in the Design, Glass, Metal and Textile Studios.
Please note: Based on feedback from applicants, we have updated our application and interview schedule this year. Applications will close December 7, 2026, with interviews taking place in mid-February 2027 and the Residency beginning September 1, 2027.
A Launchpad for Emerging Artists
For more than five decades, Harbourfront Centre has supported emerging makers as they build the skills, confidence, and networks essential for sustainable careers in craft and design. The Craft & Design Studio is Canada's only career-focused artist-in-residence program dedicated to contemporary craft and design, offering opportunities in ceramics, design, glass, metal and textiles. Functioning as an incubator, the residency provides studio space, mentorship, teaching and exhibition opportunities, and a vibrant creative community that fosters hands-on practice and professional growth.
Please note that the Ceramic Studio will not accept applications until next year.
Craft & Design Studios
Residents gain 24-hour access to fully equipped studios, alongside a range of benefits, including professional development through workshops, presentations, critiques, and networking events with visiting artists. Residents can teach classes and earn tuition, strengthening their skills as educators and communicators. Additional support from the program's administrative staff includes professional development workshops, business-planning guidance, and connections across the sector to help artists pursue exhibition, retail, commission, grant, and trade-show opportunities.
- Design Studio: flexible, well-equipped environment for exploring product design, material research, digital modeling, and interdisciplinary experimentation
- Glass Studio: work across hot, warm, and cold glass processes, developing sculptural, functional, or experimental work
- Metal Studio: fabrication, forming, soldering, and finishing for jewellers and metalsmiths working across fine jewellery, small objects, and sculptural work
- Ceramic Studio: functional ware, sculptural work, or conceptual projects (not accepting applications until next year)
Timeline
- December 7, 2026: Deadline for applications
- January 14, 2027: Invitation to interview and request for two Letters of Recommendation
- February 8, 2027: Deadline for Letters of Recommendation
- February 15 – 24, 2027: Interviews
- February 26, 2027: Notifications
- September 1, 2027: Residency term start date