AGO X RBC EMERGING ARTISTS EXCHANGE

Call for [Digital] Artist-Researchers

Three paid research mentorships available in 2021

Deadline for submissions: May 10, 2021 at 5 pm EST
Each selected artist will complete a six-week research mentorship between June and September 2021.

Apply here

The AGO is launching a paid research mentorship program for emerging artist-researchers to explore ideas of museum practices, audience engagement, or the AGO’s permanent collection to be developed over a six-week period. With the support of advisors across the gallery, each selected artist will present their research findings to the various teams at the AGO. The call is open to emerging artists who work in all mediums.

We welcome research proposals that connect to our audiences, challenge the museum field, or engage with the content and programming of the AGO. These proposals could examine any area at the museum, including but not limited to: Conservation, Collections, Curatorial, Education & Programming, Library & Archives, Food & Beverage, and Visitor Experience.

We seek research ideas which challenge conventional understandings of museum practices. Experimentation is encouraged; failure is learning.

Selected artists will receive the following:

  • A one-time $2,000.00 CDN stipend;

  • Mentorship from select AGO team members over six-week period, culminating in a presentation of research findings; and

  • have their practice featured on the AGO X RBC Emerging Artists Program webpage.

Who should apply:

  • Artists, individuals, and/or artist collectives who self-identify as emerging artists and are in the early stages of their career in their art form;

  • Applicants who are living in Canada or are Canadian citizens;

  • Practicing professional artists with two (2) or more years' experience; and

  • Artists who are able to connect virtually with AGO staff, with the expectation of 12 hours/week of research and development, during their six-week research mentorship.

To apply, please complete the below form. The following materials must be included to be considered:

  • Research proposal, including artist statement (250 words maximum, one (1) page, size 12 font);

  • Résumé/CV (one (1) page, size 12 font); and

  • Five (5) sample images, allowing us to understand your artistic practice.

Successful proposals will address the following:

  • Focus on either a connection to our audiences, challenge the museum field, or engage with the content and programming of the AGO

  • How your project advances your artistic growth/development;

We are prioritizing populations who have not been equitably represented in museums, which includes Black, Indigenous, artists of colour, LGBTQ2+, women and persons with disabilities.

Successful artists must be available between June 1 – September 30, 2021. Three selected artists will be notified by June 8, 2021.

Application deadline: May 10, 2021 @ 5 pm EST.