This program is geared towards established Indigenous visual artists who have a strong background in ecological engagement within their current practice. Applicants should have a strong interest in exploring themes of stewardship, land-based learning, and archival research as part of their practice.

We welcome artists who wish to explore experimental elements, or accomplish finished productions of their work to the best of their capacity in a fully supported environment.

This four week residency engages eight visual artist participants in a land-based, observational learning that will support the artist to develop and create a project drawing from their artistic practice that will inform the cultural narratives of this region. The artists will have access to a studio to support the creation of their project.

The project is reconciliation-based through the empowerment of Indigenous artists, working with institutions through a process that allows for meaningful engagement with the land; including Banff National Park, Parks Canada and local Knowledge Keepers. Working together, the process encourages knowledge exchange and centres Indigenous ways of knowing.

What Does the Program Offer?
This residency will explore questions around the narratives and histories that Indigenous people hold for themselves; that have been handed down from generation to generation, and from nation to nation through knowledge sharing.

Participants will share stories drawing from artifacts, plants, landmarks, and animals of the region, as well as connecting to the cultural land-based residency with opportunity for material harvesting and hands-on fabrication.

They will also take part in seasonal cultural activities and archival research sessions through on-the-land engagement in Banff National Park and surrounding areas, in collaboration with Parks Canada.