Call for Artists
Check back often for artist opportunities with Nation-led projects as well as external partners.
Nation Opportunities
Reach for the Stars Fundraiser Gala
The 9th Annual Reach for the Stars Fundraiser Gala is looking for Squamish Nation artists to submit art samples for consideration to be a part of the live auction. We are looking for painters, carvers, jewelry carvers, fashion designers and more. As there are only 13 live auction spots, space is limited and pieces will be selected on a first come, first serve basis.
The Reach for the Stars Fundraiser Gala takes place on February 28, 2025 at Chief Joe Mathias Centre.
To submit art samples or to ask questions, contact Bianca at info@eliteeventsbybianca.com or 780-580-6953.
Sen̓áḵw Development
Proposals are currently being accepted for 2D graphic designs in interior tower areas such as elevator walls, lobby feature walls, and bicycle hub walls as well as exterior ground metal inlays. The applications will be evaluated by the Sen̓áḵw Cultural Advisory Panel. If you have any questions, please email senakw_art@squamish.net.
Submission deadline: September 30, 2024
External Call for Artists
Vancouver Public Library – Large 2D printed mural design
The Vancouver Public Library is looking to commission an artist from one of the three Host Nations xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm, Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh, or səlilwətaɬ, to create an original design for Children’s Library within the Vancouver Public Library Central Library, at 350 West Georgia Street.
The Children’s Library is undergoing its first significant renovation since the Central Library opened 30 years ago, and the selected artist will create a two dimensional artwork design that will be located over 6 existing columns within the library as part of the renovation project.
The artwork will serve to welcome people to the children’s library and highlight the unceded presence of xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm, Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh, and səlilwətaɬ in the library and on these lands.
Submission Deadline: October 18, 2024
Artist Fee: $38,000 for artwork. All production and installation costs will be the responsibility of VPL.
FLEET Studios
FLEET is seeking applications from emerging artists from xʷməθkʷəyəm, Sḵwxwú7mesh, and səlilwətaɬ and Urban Indigenous Communities for artist residencies at FLEET: Granville Island. This is a self-directed residency for artists and cultural practitioners to develop their practice, create work, or engage with the community. Residency periods are four weeks long, and will take place in winter 2024-2025. In addition to working space, artists will receive a residency honorarium of $3000.
Info Sessions: October 3, 2024 at 6:00 pm, online or October 10, 2024 at 6:00 pm, in-person at FLEET: Granville Island.
To apply, please submit the following to fleetstudios@othersights.ca by 11:59 PM on October 25, 2024.
- A Project Proposal – 1 page outlining your intended use of the studio space
- A short (50-100 word) biography describing your relevant background
- Preferred dates and desired period of studio use, and if you are flexible on timeline
- Optional support material, which may include:
- Links to your website(s) to show past work or projects
- Images of past work, programs or events made into a PDF portfolio
This project is generously sponsored by CMHC-Granville Island, BC Arts Council, and Metro Vancouver’s Regional Cultural Project Grants program.
Learn more at fleetstudios.org. If you have questions, or would like to RSVP for an info session, please email fleetstudios@othersights.ca
Vancouver Coastal Health
Vancouver Coastal Health is seeking an Indigenous artist from the Host Nations (Musqueam, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, or Tsleil-Waututh Nation) to design artwork for the Vancouver General Hospital (VGH) parkade in Vancouver.
The project teams aim to:
- Honour the Host Nations on whose territories the facilities are located; and
- Create a welcoming and inclusive space for Indigenous clients seeking service at the sites.
Artist design fee: Up to $ 8,000
Application Deadline: October 1, 2024
FIFA World Cup 2026
As one of the sixteen North American cities hosting the FIFA World Cup 26™, the City of Vancouver is seeking Expressions of Interest from artists to participate in a Host City Poster Competition. The selected artist will receive $25,000 for their design and their work will become a lasting symbol of Vancouver’s role in hosting this event. The four runners up will receive an honorarium of $1,500 for their submissions.
Submission deadline: September 20, 2024
TransLink
This call for a temporary art project that is anticipated to be on display for up to 10 years is open to artists from Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
TransLink is seeking applications to select one artists from each of the Host Nations to create designs for transparent vinyl installations on the three glass sections above the Burrard SkyTrain Station ticket hall.
Extended Submission deadline: September 27, 2024
City of Vancouver
On their website, the City of Vancouver regularly posts opportunities for local artists including calls for public art, juried shows and exhibitions, available studio space, and more. Some are exclusively for MST or Indigenous artists. Visit the link below for the latest.
Nation Updates
Letter from Nexwsxwníw̓ntm ta Úxwumixw | Update on Squamish Nation Distribution Program
To the Squamish People, The Squamish Nation Council is pleased to announce approval for a special payment, again this year, ahead of the holidays.
2024 Office Holiday Closure
Squamish Nation offices will be closed for the holidays starting on Friday, December 20, 2024 and they will re-open on Thursday, January 2, 2025. Regular programs and services may not be running, but there are still many supports available to Members in need. Please reach out if you need support.
