Above: Menaces Imminentes (detail) by Patrick Bérubé, 2003.
Series of 10 digital prints. Each 20 x 24 inches. Photograph.
A heartfelt thank you to Bill Kirby, the founder of the CCCA and creator of the CCCA Canadian Art Database.
Established in 1997, this database of Canadian art and artists was created by a passionate cohort in an effort to document the important work going on throughout this country.
The project has evolved due to the collective efforts of many, seeking to sustain and evolve this resource. Since 2013, the database has been housed at Concordia University in Montreal, at the Gail and Stephen A. Jarislowsky Institute for Studies in Canadian Art.
Exhibition
Exhibiting artwork is a crucial and meaningful step for artists, allowing us to share our creative expressions with a broader audience. This process not only validates artists’ efforts and brings their work into public view but also opens up opportunities for dialogue, critique, and appreciation that can be profoundly rewarding and insightful. By presenting our work, artists engage with our community, gain visibility, and can significantly impact our professional trajectory.
The Power of Sharing Work
Exhibiting work enables artists to receive feedback, which can be integral to our artistic development. It fosters a dialogue between the artist and the public, enhancing understanding and appreciation of different perspectives and cultures. Moreover, exhibitions can lead to professional opportunities such as sales, commissions, and collaborations that might not arise otherwise. On a broader scale, sharing work contributes to the cultural vibrancy of society, enriching the lives of individuals and communities.
Resources for Exhibiting Artwork in Canada
Here are several resources and platforms in Canada where artists can explore opportunities to exhibit their work:
Public Galleries and Museums
The National Gallery of Canada (Ottawa, ON)
One of Canada’s premier venues for visual arts, offering various exhibition opportunities.
Artist-Run Centres
Gallery 101 (Ottawa, ON)
A non-profit artist-run centre that supports artistic and cultural diversity through exhibitions, discussions, and public presentations.
Online Exhibition Platforms
ArtGate VR
A virtual reality platform that allows artists to display their work in a virtual space, reaching a global audience without geographical constraints.
Artsy
While primarily a sales platform, Artsy also offers promotional exposure through online exhibitions, connecting artists with collectors and galleries worldwide.
Local Arts Councils and Community Centres
Toronto Arts Council
Provides information on various exhibition opportunities in local galleries and community spaces.
Calgary Arts Development
Supports local artists with resources for exhibiting their work within Calgary.
Annual Art Fairs and Markets
Toronto Outdoor Art Fair
Canada's largest outdoor art fair, providing artists with a platform to exhibit and sell their work directly to the public.
Eastside Culture Crawl (Vancouver, BC):
An annual event that allows artists to showcase their work in their studios in an open-house setting.
Online Resources for Exhibition Opportunities in Canada and Beyond
Several online resources provide information on exhibition opportunities for artists both in Canada and internationally:
Res Artis
A worldwide network of artist residencies and exhibition opportunities.
TransArtists
Offers a comprehensive guide to artist-in-residence programs and exhibition opportunities.
Alliance of Artists Communities
An association of artist residency programs that provides resources and support for exhibitions.
ArtConnect
A platform listing various international residency opportunities, open calls, and grants for artists.
On the Move
A cultural mobility information network that provides details on residency programs and exhibition opportunities.
These resources offer various platforms and settings for artists to exhibit our work, from formal galleries and museums to more innovative and accessible online venues. By taking advantage of these opportunities, artists can significantly enhance our visibility, engage with broader audiences, and contribute to the dynamic cultural landscape.
Education
The value and power of educational opportunities for artists in Canada are profound, encompassing both traditional academic paths and openly available, often free, resources. These educational avenues not only enhance technical skills and creativity but also expand professional networks and increase exposure to potential markets and audiences. In this article, we'll explore the range of educational opportunities available to Canadian artists and highlight their benefits, referencing actual Canadian sources.
Traditional Educational Opportunities
Canadian artists can pursue formal education through degrees and certificates in fine arts, offered by numerous reputable institutions across the country.
University Programs
BFA and MFA Degrees
MacEwan University
Edmonton, Alberta
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art & Design
University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta
Visual Studies (Bachelor of Fine Arts)
University of Lethbridge
Lethbridge, Alberta
Faculty of Fine Arts (BFA & MFA)
Emily Carr University of Art + Design
Vancouver, British Columbia
Kwantlen Polytechnic
Vancouver, British Columbia
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Visual Arts
Simon Fraser University
Vancouver, British Columbia
Master of Fine Arts in Interdisciplinary Arts
Thompson Rivers University
Kamloops, British Columbia
University of British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia
University of Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia
University of the Fraser Valley
Abbotsford, British Columbia
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Fine Arts Studio Program (BFA)
Brandon University
Brandon, Manitoba
Mount Allison University
Sackville, New Brunswick
Memorial University of Newfoundland
St. John's, Newfoundland
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Arts)
Master of Fine Arts in Studio Arts
NSCAD University
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Algoma University
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU)
Toronto, Ontario
Image Arts: Photography Media Arts (BFA)
Lakehead University
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Honours Bachelor of Fine Arts (Visual Arts Major)
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario
Nipissing University
North Bay, Ontario
OCAD
Toronto, Ontario
MFA and MDes (Master of Design)
Queen's University
Kingston, Ontario
University of Guelph
Guelph, Ontario
University of Ottawa
Ottawa, Ontario
University of Western Ontario
London, Ontario
University of Windsor
Windsor, Ontario
York University
Toronto, Ontario
Concordia University
Montreal, Quebec
Université de Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke, Quebec
Certificat en arts visuels (Certificate in Visual Arts)
Université Laval
Laval, Quebec
First Nations University of Canada
Regina, Saskatoon, and Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
Bachelor of Fine Arts (Indigenous Art)
Certificate in Indigenous Fine Arts
University of Regina
Regina, Saskatchewan
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Bachelor of Arts Degrees
Vancouver Island University
Nanaimo, British Columbia
St. Thomas University
Fredericton, New Brunswick
University of New Brunswick
Fredericton, New Brunswick
Université de Moncton
Moncton, New Brunswick
Brock University
St. Catharines, Ontario
University of Toronto
Toronto, Ontario
Bachelor of Arts, Visual Studies
Master of Visual Studies in Studio Art
University of Waterloo
Waterloo, Ontario
Bishop's University
Sherbrooke, Quebec
UQAM
Montreal, Quebec
Baccaleauréat en arts visuels et médiatiques
College Programs
Colleges such as Alberta University of the Arts, Sheridan College in Oakville, and Dawson College in Montreal provide diploma programs that are more focused and shorter in duration than university programs, offering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
Specialized Art Schools
The Yukon School of Visual Arts (SOVA) provides a foundational year program in the arts that prepares students for further education in art schools across Canada.
Openly Available Educational Opportunities
Self-guided education, which often includes workshops, online courses, and community programs, can be particularly valuable for artists seeking flexible learning schedules or specific skill sets.
Online Platforms
Websites like Coursera and Skillshare offer courses taught by industry professionals worldwide, including Canada-specific content.
Workshops and Masterclasses
Many community centers, galleries, and artist-run centers offer periodic workshops that provide training in specific techniques or aspects of the art business. For example, the Toronto School of Art and Artscape offer various workshops and masterclasses tailored to emerging and established artists.
Free Educational Resources
A variety of free resources are available that help artists develop without the financial burden associated with formal education.
Public Libraries
Many Canadian public libraries, like the Vancouver Public Library, Toronto Public Library, and Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec (BAnQ), offer free access to digital resources, art books, and even classes.
Online Tutorials and Webinars
Platforms like YouTube have countless tutorials on art techniques. Additionally, organizations such as the Canadian Arts and Business Foundation occasionally offer free webinars on topics relevant to artists.
Community and Peer Learning
Learning from peers and participating in community art projects can provide practical experience and build strong professional networks.
Artist Collectives and Co-operatives
These organizations, like Artscape in Toronto, the Visual Arts Centre in Montreal, and Harcourt House Artist Run Centre in Edmonton, offer not only shared workspace but also collaborative and educational opportunities through community projects.
Learning Through Museums and Galleries
Visiting museums and galleries is an invaluable way for artists to learn and draw inspiration. These institutions often provide educational programs, artist talks, and workshops that are crucial for artistic development.
Museums
Major Canadian museums like the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Toronto, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and the Vancouver Art Gallery host extensive collections and exhibitions that offer insight into various art movements and techniques. Many museums also have educational programs and events specifically designed for artists.
Galleries
Galleries across Canada, such as the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery in Toronto and the Contemporary Art Gallery in Vancouver, frequently hold exhibitions, artist talks, and panel discussions that provide deeper understanding and critical perspectives on contemporary art practices.
These educational opportunities, both traditional and self-guided, provide artists in Canada with critical tools for personal and professional growth. They not only foster artistic talent and innovation but also contribute significantly to the cultural landscape by enriching the community and economy.
Connection
Collaboration in the arts is a transformative force that facilitates not only the sharing of ideas and skills but also promotes innovation and enriches cultural expression. By working together, artists can explore new perspectives, combine disparate disciplines, and create work that resonates on multiple levels with a diverse audience. This phenomenon is particularly evident in interdisciplinary collaborations, where artists from different mediums come together to produce unique, synergistic work.
Expanding Creative Horizons
Collaboration allows artists to step outside their individual practices and explore new creative territories. By pooling diverse skill sets and perspectives, collaborative projects often lead to unexpected and innovative outcomes. For example, the merging of technology and traditional sculpture in digital installation art can challenge and expand the boundaries of what is considered possible in both fields. Such partnerships can introduce artists to new materials, methods, and concepts, significantly broadening their artistic horizons and impacting their solo work.
Enhancing Problem-Solving Capabilities
Working collaboratively enhances problem-solving capabilities by incorporating multiple viewpoints. This approach is invaluable in complex projects where the scale or scope can benefit from varied inputs. For instance, in large-scale public art projects, collaborative efforts between architects, engineers, and artists can solve practical issues while maintaining aesthetic integrity. The diversity of expertise ensures that solutions are well-rounded and innovative, effectively addressing challenges that might stump an individual working alone.
Building Networks and Communities
Collaborative projects often act as catalysts for building professional networks and fostering communities. These networks can provide ongoing support, open doors to new opportunities, and create a sense of belonging among participants. For example, residency programs that encourage collaboration, such as those offered by the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, connect artists from all over the world, leading to lasting relationships and future projects. The communal atmosphere of such programs can significantly reduce the often-isolating nature of artistic work.
Economic and Social Impact
From an economic perspective, collaborative arts projects can attract funding from sources that might be inaccessible to individual artists, including large grants and public funds aimed at community improvement projects. Socially, these collaborations can engage audiences more deeply, as the varied elements of the work can offer multiple entry points for understanding and appreciation. Collaborative art can thus play a crucial role in community engagement and revitalization, fostering social cohesion and cultural pride.
Resources
A leading source of art news and art event coverage.
A community of intentional, curious and collaborative leaders doing work that matters.
Directory of art galleries.
The Canadian Network for Arts & Learning
Unites local, regional and national arts and learning communities in a network for exchange, research and collaboration.
The OAC was established in 1963 to foster the creation and production of art for the benefit of all Ontarians.
A national arts service organization representing both the provincial and territorial craft councils and persons participating in the Canadian crafts sector.
Residency
Residencies offer invaluable opportunities for artists to immerse themselves in new environments, collaborate with other creatives, and focus deeply on their work without the distractions of daily life. They provide a dedicated space and time for artistic development, allowing for experimentation, reflection, and growth. Additionally, residencies often foster a sense of community among artists, encouraging interdisciplinary exchange and collaboration. The experiences gained and connections made during residencies can significantly impact an artist's career, offering new perspectives and professional development.
Notable Residencies in Canada
Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
Banff, Alberta
Offers thematic residencies and self-directed work periods in a stunning mountain landscape, focusing on artistic development and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Harbourfront Centre Craft & Design Studio
Toronto, Ontario
Provides studio space and equipment for emerging artists in ceramics, glass, textiles, and jewelry, emphasizing skill development and business acumen.
Artscape Gibraltar Point
Toronto Islands, Ontario
Offers a peaceful, communal atmosphere where artists can focus on their projects while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Toronto Islands.
Fogo Island Arts
Fogo Island, Newfoundland
Supports artistic practices that are site-specific and engage with island residents and the environment, offering residencies and studios with dramatic views.
The Clay and Glass
Waterloo, Ontario
Offers residencies for artists working with clay, glass, and enamel, providing studio space and opportunities for public engagement and professional development.
Pouch Cove Foundation
Pouch Cove, Newfoundland
Provides artists with a retreat-like environment in a small, coastal Newfoundland community to focus on their work without distractions.
The Gushul Studio Residency
Blairmore, Alberta
Operated by the University of Lethbridge, this residency offers studio space and accommodation in a scenic setting, suitable for artists and scholars.
MAI (Montréal, arts interculturels)
Montreal, Quebec
A multidisciplinary artist center that offers residencies focusing on intercultural and socially engaged art practices.
Klondike Institute of Art and Culture
Dawson City, Yukon
Provides studio space for artists to engage with the community and the unique cultural landscape of the Yukon.
These residencies vary widely in terms of focus, location, and resources offered, allowing artists to choose a setting that best suits their creative needs and goals.
Online Resources: International Residencies
Res Artis: A worldwide network of arts residencies that offers information on residency programs around the globe.
TransArtists: Provides a comprehensive guide to artist-in-residence programs, including practical information on how to apply.
Alliance of Artists Communities: An association of artist residency programs across the U.S. and beyond, offering resources and support for artists.
ArtConnect: A platform that lists various international residency opportunities, open calls, and grants for artists.
On the Move: A cultural mobility information network that provides details on residency programs and funding opportunities.
Financial Wellness
Achieving financial stability as an artist, particularly in Canada, involves a multifaceted approach that can include leveraging grants, maintaining a day job, engaging in cohabitation and resource sharing, and exploring additional revenue streams. Here is a structured discussion on these aspects, along with references for further exploration and validation in an academic context.
Leveraging Grants and Funding Opportunities
Canadian artists have access to numerous grants from federal and provincial government bodies, as well as private foundations. These grants are often project-based and can provide significant financial support for specific artistic endeavors.
Canada Council for the Arts: This is the primary avenue for federal arts funding in Canada, offering a variety of grants for individual artists, groups, and organizations. Grants are available for a wide range of artistic disciplines and career stages.
Provincial Arts Councils: Each province has its own arts council, such as the Ontario Arts Council or the British Columbia Arts Council, which provides grants, awards, and resources specific to their regions.
Maintaining a Day Job
Many artists choose to maintain day jobs either within or outside their artistic disciplines to ensure a steady income. Balancing a day job with an artistic career requires good time management but can provide financial security.
Creative Industry Jobs: Jobs in creative industries such as graphic design, marketing, or digital media can be particularly advantageous as they often utilize similar skills and networks.
Flexible Jobs: Part-time jobs or freelance gigs offer flexibility to focus on artistic projects while providing a steady income.
Cohabitation and Sharing Resources
Cohabitation with other artists or like-minded individuals can reduce living costs and foster a supportive community. Shared housing arrangements are particularly common in expensive urban areas where artists tend to congregate.
Artistic Collectives: Living in artist collectives or communes can provide both emotional support and cost-sharing benefits.
Shared Studios: Sharing studio space with other artists reduces rental costs and can also lead to collaborative opportunities.
Additional Revenue Streams
Diversifying income sources can help stabilize financial income for artists. This can include selling artwork, teaching, workshops, and digital platforms.
Selling Artwork: Beyond traditional galleries, artists can sell their work at art fairs, online platforms (like Etsy or Artfinder), or through social media.
Teaching: Conducting workshops or teaching at community centers, schools, or private lessons can provide regular income.
Online Platforms: Platforms like Patreon allow artists to receive funding directly from their audience in exchange for exclusive content or perks.
Professional Development and Networking
Building a professional network can lead to opportunities for exhibitions, sales, and collaborations. Additionally, professional development workshops can provide artists with business skills necessary to manage their finances effectively.
Artistic Organizations and Unions: Membership in organizations such as CARFAC (Canadian Artists’ Representation) offers resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
Resources
Canada's public arts funder.
Fosters the creation and production of art for the benefit of all Ontarians.
Advocacy for Canadian artists.
The Art Dealers Association of Canada
The largest representation of private and commercial art galleries in Canada.
Supports arts training in Canada and contributes to the development of future artists and cultural leaders.
BC Alliance for Arts + Culture
A nonprofit provincial organization that works to advocate, inform, connect and serve BC's Creative Community.
Indigenous Arts Collective of Canada
Gathers people with the sole purpose of putting into action the reclamation, preservation and revitalization of endangered Indigenous art forms and makers and this work directly translates into the reclamation and retention of cultural knowledge.
Alberta Foundation for the Arts
The primary arts resource and grant funding body in Alberta.
Self Care & Mental Health
The mission of the CCCA Canadian Art Database is to expand public awareness of contemporary Canadian Art, nationally and internationally. We continue to celebrate this work, thanks to the ongoing support and dedication of our community.
