This is our bi-weekly newsletter of opportunities and information for artists. Become a member of VANS and we’ll email this newsletter to you. Click on items in the index at the top of the page to visit different sections of the VANS Newsletter. Learn more about each opportunity by clicking on the colourful links to visit their website.

Want to submit something for the next newsletter? Check out the VANS Promotion Guide for details on what we need and then send us an email with your event/ program/ opportunity info. Something missing? Let us know!

VANS Newsletter #616
April 15, 2026

INDEX:

VANS Matters
Announcements
Awards and Funding
Education
Employment
Events
Residencies
Submissions
Nova Scotia Exhibition Listings

VANS Matters

The first two workshops in VANS’ Spring Workshop Series can help get you ready for your next exhibition. Sign up today for Writing Your Artist Statement and CV with VANS’ Programming Coordinator and Writing Tutor Carri MacKay (April 30th) and How to Give a Great Artist Talk with Artist and Educator Lux Gow-Habrich (May 6th). The first workshop covers the best format and content for your CV and Artist Statement to highlight all your accomplishments – templates and examples will be provided! In How to Give A Great Artist Talk you’ll learn how talk confidently about your work (online and in-person), as well as how and what to prepare. These two-hour online workshops are $40 for VANS members and $50 for non-members. Registered participants for online workshops will get a limited-time link to a recording of the session afterward so you can still get all the content, even if you can’t make it on the day. You can bundle three workshops (using the discount code 3 Workshop Bundle at checkout) and save!  Register today online using a credit card or PayPal. We also accept e-transfer to communicate@visualarts.ns.ca — just remember to send a separate email with your registration info.

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Check out VANS’ Spring Workshop Series! We have really focused on getting you ready for the opportunities that arise (like a residency, an exhibition, a craft show, etc.) so that you feel confident when you apply. VANS is offering Writing Your Artist Statement and CV with VANS’ Programming Coordinator and Writing Tutor Carri MacKay (that’s me!), How to Give a Great Artist Talk with Artist and Educator Lux Gow-Habrich, Pricing Your Work with Marketing Strategist Stacey Cornelius, and Contract & Copyright Basics with Artist and Advocate Sydney Lancaster. The two-hour online workshops are $40 for VANS members and $50 for non-members. Registered participants for online workshops will get a limited-time link to a recording of the session afterward so you can still get all the content, even if you can’t make it on the day. You can bundle three workshops (using the discount code 3 Workshop Bundle at checkout) and save!  Register today online using a credit card or PayPal. We were having some technical issues on the VANS website, but they are fixed and you CAN register online now! We also accept e-transfer to communicate@visualarts.ns.ca — just remember to send a separate email with your registration info.

Visual Arts Nova Scotia, in partnership with le Conseil des arts de la Baie (CAB), is pleased to welcome Kevin Comeau as the newest VANS in Residence Artist. Kevin will be in residence from April 6 – May 2, 2026 in Church Point, Nova Scotia. VANS in Residence is a 4 week artist in residence project hosted in communities throughout NS. This work engages the participating artist and community in exploring the artist’s practice and community based art. The artist will divide their time between their own practice (60%), and leading art education programming with children, youth and/or intergenerational groups through workshops, talks, open studios and creation processes (40%). From the artist: Through my art, I let natural mediums speak. I may be an Acadian artist living in a traditional, rural area, but my artwork isn’t typical or traditional. I love to push the boundaries creating fine art and surprising people as a self-taught sculptor. This residency will give me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in researching, developing and working on a new body of work. I would very much like to be able to discuss and exchange with other Sculptors in the area. I would like to take advantage of my time at the CAB workshop to spend time with local Artists, to reconnect with some of them and meet new ones to exchange ideas and get inspiration as well. There will be workshops, open studios and other events during the residence. Follow VANS and CAB on social media to keep up on what’s happening.

VANS in Residence: Artist Lisa Meecham at Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design. VANS is thrilled to announce Lisa Meecham as the newest VANS in Residence Artist, in partnership with the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design. Lisa will be in residence in Sydney from March 16 to April 16, 2026, dividing her time between her own practice (60 per cent) and leading community-based art education programming (40 per cent). Lisa is an award-winning traditional rug hooker and eighth-generation African Nova Scotian descendant. Her practice uses wool and natural fibres to process and share hard stories, including generational trauma, pride, and the complexities of Black Canadian history. As she describes, “With every loop, there is a thought, an emotion, a memory, and hopefully a reconciliation of sorts.” She is currently creating new works for an upcoming exhibition, including a hooked interpretation of Richard Rudnicki’s painting Freedom Halifax 1814, which depicts the arrival of Black Chesapeake refugees in Nova Scotia. Thanks to support from the Level Up! program of Balancing Act, this residency is designated for an artist who is a caregiver. We are grateful to offer this opportunit

Renew your VANS membership anytime!   You can renew your membership online here or by sending a cheque along with a Membership Form to VANS, 1113 Marginal Road, Halifax, NS, B3H 4P7.  You can also send an e-transfer to communicate@visualarts.ns.ca – just make sure you also send an email with your contact info so we can update our records. Need more info or renewal options? Email communicate@visualarts.ns.ca. Not sure if you signed up for an automatically renewing membership? Log in to the VANS website then, in the Membership Details section of your account, you can adjust your membership type and opt out of auto-renew. VANS also has membership bursaries. We understand that membership fees can be out of reach for some artists, so we have fully funded 2026 memberships.

Visual Arts News is pleased to announce our new Editor, Ross Nervig. As we enter our 50th year as a publication, we’re thrilled to have Ross join us to help us keep moving forward on our journey. Ross is a writer, editor, and communications strategist with more than a decade of experience in journalism, arts writing, and non-profit communications. In his work, he has been honoured to help make space for the voices of those in equity deserving communities. From Ross: “I’m thrilled to be joining Visual Arts News as its next editor. The magazine has long been an essential platform for reflecting and shaping the conversations that matter in Atlantic Canada’s arts community. I believe any act of creation is, at its foundation, an invitation to connect — with each other, with place, and with possibility. I feel deeply honoured to help carry that spirit of connection forward.” We welcome Ross to this new role and can’t wait to get started on our first issue with him as our Editor — Spring 2026 issue. Watch for the call for pitches to come out later in October. Our Fall issue his newsstands and subscriber mailboxes September 15th.

Visual Arts Nova Scotia is pleased to officially announce the participants of this year’s Mentorship Program. After receiving many great applications, the program will be supporting four dedicated emerging artists in Nova Scotia. Jordan Johnson, Kamila Orbegoso, Shane Keyu Song, and Jessica Steele and have been individually paired with established artists and mentors Melanie Colosimo, Margarita Fainshtein, Mathew Reichertz, and Christopher Webb.

Did you know that VANS has an Artist Emergency Fund? VANS established the Artist Emergency Fund to assist artists in financial need arising from severe illness, an accident resulting in inability to work or help with studio replacement in case of a disaster, such as fire, where there is no insurance. VANS Members are able to apply for short-term assistance, up to $500/month for three months maximum. The fund has been used in recent years to help member artists who have been injured in a car accident, had a surgery that prevented them from working, who were ineligible for benefits but could not work during the pandemic, whose studio was damaged by natural disasters, and more. There is no application deadline and applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis. The fund is supported in part by donations from VANS members – and we are so grateful for their generosity! If you would like to make a donation to the Artist Emergency Fund you can do so anytime here.

You can now purchase VANS limited-edition merch! The black cotton tote bag ($25) and iridescent stickers ($5/each) are sold individually or as a bundle of all three VANS merch items ($30). The merch was designed by VANS member and artist AGLENNCO and produced by Copy Shop Books. You can buy them at the VANS office or in our online shop (and we’ll mail them to you). We are selling VANS merch as a fundraiser so get yours today and show your support! Click here for more info and to purchase: https://visualarts.ns.ca/shop-category/vans-merch/.

If you want to renew your VANS membership but find the membership fee out of reach right now, consider applying for a Membership Bursary. Membership Bursaries provide artists in need of financial support with a VANS membership (which runs from January 1 – December 31). There’s no deadline to apply and applications are confidential. Recipients of the bursary will receive a .pdf of Visual Arts News magazine instead of the print-mailed version, but other than that the bursary membership has the same benefits as any other VANS membership.

A subscription to Visual Arts News makes the perfect gift for the art-lover in your life and costs just $24. Two times a year, your gift recipients will be reminded of your generosity and good taste when you give them a year-long subscription to Visual Arts News, the magazine that is an ongoing conversation inspired by the artistic vision of artists and writers pushing the boundaries of art and culture in Atlantic Canada. Order, here: https://visualartsnews.ca/subscribe/.

Without the generosity of its many supporters, VANS could not offer such a wide range of programs and services. Last year over 30% of our total expenses were fees paid out directly to artists in Atlantic Canada and with more donations, more artists can be paid! Here are some examples of how your donation could support an artist at VANS:

• $50 supports a membership bursary
• $240 supports a three-hour PAINTS project
• $500 supports one month of Artist Emergency Funding

Donate $20 or more to receive a charitable tax receipt. Donate before December 31 to include it in your tax deductions.

At VANS, we love sharing events and news from Nova Scotian arts organizations, galleries, and our members on social media or in our biweekly newsletter. When it comes to asking for people, organizations, or media outlets to share your project or event, we find there’s a way to do it to maximize your chance of getting promoted. Check out our new Guide to Getting Your Project/ Event Promoted Digitally! Learn the things that VANS needs you to provide in order to share your event (and what NOT to do)!

ART RECESS is a new collection of short, accessible workshops that can be delivered online at times that work for teachers in the school year, or for parents and other caregivers in the summertime!  VANS’ commissioned 9 artists to create ART RECESS workshops and videos available for free to educators, students and parents. Part of the PAINTS  (Professional Artists In the Schools) Program, these workshops are made to be quick (15 – 20 minutes) and use materials that most people would have around the house. Check out all the ART RECESS videos on the VANS’ YouTube channel today!

VANS has launched a Facebook Group! This group welcomes any visual artists living in Nova Scotia. This community space can be used for exchanging opportunities, resources or news with one another. Click here to join, and invite your friends so they don’t miss out on this information hub.

We are now including an Artist Page (formerly known as an E-studio) with EVERY membership! Artists say this is one of our most valuable membership benefits, and with everyone on board it will be THE destination to find Nova Scotian artists online. The Artist Pages provide a page on our website where artists can post up to six images, an artist statement, selected biography, and contact information. It can provide an increased online presence for artists or provide an online presence for artists without a website. As members renew their membership they will get a login and be prompted to create their Artist Page. We’ve created a template to follow (that will appear when you click on Create My Artist Page in My Account) so it’s never been this easy. If you already have an Artist Page, you can still edit it, as usual. We are just a phone call away if you need help with a step.

VANS Members can now access the Arts & Entertainment health plan. ACTRA Fraternal Benefit Society (AFBS) is a Member-owned, not-for-profit, federally incorporated insurance company and financial institution operating since 1975. AFBS has proudly underwritten the Arts & Entertainment Plan® since 2011. They offer multiple types of plans and you’re eligible if: you are a VANS Member; you are a professional in the arts, living in Canada; you have a valid Provincial Health Card; and you’re under 71 years of age. See their website for details on their plans, coverage and get a free quote.

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Announcements

The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia will offer free access to all Nova Scotia residents under 25. Alongside this change, they are also making changes to their membership program. Now there will now be two membership options at the AGNS: single ($75) or dual ($125). This includes unlimited admission, a discount in the shop, and access to member-only events and programs. They will no longer be offering other memberships, including the artist membership (previously $45). Their new Annual Pass for just $28 that provides unlimited admission to the AGNS for one year. While this doesn’t offer all of the same perks as membership, it does create a new, low-cost option for people who just want to visit the AGNS as often as they like. If you want to promote either the Free Access under 25 or Annual Pass check out their website.

Buy a ticket for the Home of Our Hearts Lottery. 13 incredible Cape Breton arts and culture organizations have teamed up to launch something pretty special – In the face of budget cuts, they’re choosing collaboration over competition – because our arts scene isn’t just important… it’s the heartbeat of this island. There is a 50/50 draws every two weeks and proceeds support all 13 organizations. When you buy a ticket, you’re not just taking a chance to win – you’re helping keep craft, art, music, theatre, language, and culture alive in Unama’ki Cape Breton. Grab your ticket!

CFAT is partnering with UKAI Projects to launch Goblin Market — a 6-week artist economy prototyping lab, 2-day micro-festival, and week-long public exhibition running April through late June 2026 in Halifax.This isn’t a typical open call. Rather than a competitive application, we’re building a public roster — a visible list of artists, creatives, and cultural workers who are open to collaboration, resource-sharing, and new ways of working together. Six participants will be selected from the roster by lottery. What’s included for selected participants: a 6-week collaborative lab focused on prototyping new economic models for the arts; Access to CFAT’s facility, equipment, and membership from April to June; Participation in a 2-day micro-festival and week-long public exhibition in late June; $1,200 total (honorarium + materials). This might be for you if: You’re frustrated with how arts funding works, you have something to offer your local arts community, and you’re genuinely curious about building more sustainable and value-aligned ways to practice and collaborate.To join the roster and enter the call: Fill out this Google Form. Draw happens live April 24.

Creative Homes Halifax has studio space for rent! They run a studio block in Halifax’s North End out of 3200 Kempt Road and currently have both private and shared studio spaces available. Creative Homes Halifax is a home for creative space in Kjipuktuk/Halifax. Their space is home to makers of all kinds, from painters and textile artists to printers and animators. Both the shared studios and private studios at 3200 Kempt Road can accommodate a variety of practices. Contact them to see if Creative Homes Halifax could be the right space for your creativity. Join a new artist community space connecting and collaborating with others. Rent in the shared studios is from $200-$350 per month.

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Peer Gallery in Lunenburg is celebrating their 25th Anniversary this year! The season opening is April 16 and they are open 12:30 to 4:30 pm, Thursday through Sunday. Check out the Gallery members’ exhibition of painting, drawing, original prints, metal arts, and ceramics by Allyson Simmie, Anne Tweed, Audrey Nicol, Barbara McLean, Carol Morrow, Christopher Joyce, Diana Baldwin, Douglas Boutilier, Joan Bruneau, Melissa Nichols-McConnel, Sally Warren, Sharon Fox Cranston, Teresa Bergen and Tom Ward.

A warm congratulations to this year’s Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival juried artists! They’re excited to share the selected artists for the 2026 Parrsboro International Plein Air Festival! This year’s juried group brings together a diverse range of talent, each ready to capture the dramatic landscapes, shifting tides, and unique spirit of our community. Join them June 16 – 21, 2026, as artists paint on location throughout the community, culminating in exhibitions and events that celebrate creativity in the open air. Learn more about the artists, schedule, and how to get involved at pipaf.ca.

Budget cuts will end Artists in the Schools! The Nova Scotia Government’s budget cuts are devastating to the arts, our natural environment, social services, mental health and equity programs. Among these heavy-handed cuts, they eliminated 100% of the provincial support for the Artists in the Schools programs, including PAINTS. If you are an educator, a parent, or a student, you already know that schools are asked to do more with less every day, and arts programs are often first to go. Artists in the Schools programs need to grow, not end. The government can do better. Send a letter to your MLA, the Premier and the Ministers of CCTH & Finance and ask them to reinstate funding for Artists in the Schools.

Kjipuktuk/Halifax galleries, museums, cultural and educational institutions, community groups, and local businesses are invited to submit their plans to participate in Nocturne: Embodied City as part of our signature night-time art experience on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 6:00 PM – midnight. They encourage proposals of all kinds: interactive installations, performances, community engagement, workshops, collective creating, film screenings – and more! Nocturne’s 2026 Festival Curator, Annalise Prodor selected the theme Embodied City to inform this year’s festival. Applicants are invited to explore this theme within their proposals. Deadline: August 1, 2026, 11:59PM (ADT).

Aisle 4 is pleased to announce the online launch of Silencing in the Arts, a multi-year research project that traces the extent and impact of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) on the Canadian visual arts sector. The project aims to shed light on the culture of silence that permeates the artworld, and the cycles of abuse and professional misconduct that are perpetuated as a result. They initiated Silencing in the Arts out of widespread, sectoral concerns of artists and arts workers signing NDAs without clear understanding of their rights; organizations quietly dissolving without public accountability; and the growing culture of censorship in our industry. The project examines how these compounded issues impact the personal and professional wellbeing of cultural workers across Canada, as well as reinforce power imbalances, limit transparency, and hinder growth in the sector more broadly. Through research and advocacy, they aim to expose these challenges and push for meaningful change. This includes a free online resource for artists and arts workers to better understand their rights when it comes to NDAs, and a national survey to collect vital information about the impacts and prevalence of NDAs in the Canadian visual arts sector. Have you signed, or been asked to sign, a legal agreement that prevents you from speaking about your experience working with a Canadian arts organization? Please consider contributing to this continued research through this anonymous survey. Results will serve to inform arts institutions, funders, and policymakers about the serious harm caused by silencing, advocating to end the misuse of NDAs in the arts sector.

Did you know that The Kalaman Group is now offering fine art logistics and transport services throughout the Maritimes?  Alongside their ongoing work in collection management, cataloguing, and appraisals, their team now provides in the Maritime region:

• White-glove fine art transport for art and objects;
• Expert handling and installation services;
• Custom packaging for delicate and high-value pieces;
• Emergency support for last-minute or time-sensitive packing and moves; and
• Flexible, short leg rural route coverage

Whether you’re preparing for an exhibition, relocating a collection, or need help moving a single piece — The Kalaman Group is here to support with care, discretion, and precision. If you would like to learn more or discuss an upcoming project, feel free to reach out anytime via email (contact@kalamangroup.ca) or fill out their intake form here.

Kiley Brown is a therapist, artist, and founder of The Living Room Therapy. They recently launched a therapy clinic for creatives (artists, writers, performers and so on). It is a cozy, integrative space where artistry and mental health meet. Their work is rooted in the belief that creative people hold a deep capacity to transform pain into meaning, but that process can often feel isolating without the right kind of support. Kiley focuses on working with artists, makers, and creative professionals who are navigating burnout, identity shifts, or the emotional ups and downs that come with a life of expression. As both a therapist and creative, they understand how personal and vulnerable the creative process can be and how mental health care tailored to that experience can make all the difference. Accessibility is really important, so they also offer a sliding-scale fee structure and options for artists without insurance or those experiencing financial strain. The goal is to make mental health care feel approachable, affirming, and genuinely supportive for those doing creative work in the world.

Arts Consultants Canada / Consultants canadiens en arts (ACCA) have released the results from the 2025 feasibility study for a Canadian network for cultural management. This 2025 study assessed the appetite and requirements for a ‘Canadian Network for Cultural Management’—a community of practice that would fill an identified gap and facilitate knowledge sharing, professional development, and collaboration among cultural management professionals and post-secondary educators. They are pleased to share the Executive Summary of the study’s final report with you, along with the detailed full report attached as a PDF. You may read the Executive Summary, and there is also a download link for the full 50-page report.Thanks to the many people in Canada’s cultural sector who participated in this feasibility study.

Andrew David Terris, arts advocate and former Director of Visual Arts Nova Scotia, passed away in 2025. A special award has been established by the Nova Scotia Talent Trust to honour Andrew’s contribution to the arts in Nova Scotia. If you would like to make a donation to support this award, please visit their website and select “Andrew David Terris Legacy Award” from the drop-down menu.

Join 2b at the Video Difference Arts Hub on Quinpool Road in Halifax. They currently have a private 105sqft office available for long term lease that could be perfect for your organization’s office or as a studio for an individual artist.  They’ve been so thrilled to host several pop-events in the Video Difference Lobby.  Whether it’s an afternoon, or a full weekend takeover- it’s the perfect space for a thrift shop, art market, etc! They also have artist housing available. The process and policies for housing have been evolving, and they’ve been making changes/adjustments to better suit the incoming inquiries, schedules, etc. If you are interested in any of these spaces, please send an inquiry to bookings@2btheatre.com. 

NYC podcast History UnErased chooses a local Nova Scotian artist’s graphic novel for inclusion in LGBTQ school curricula. Lynette Richards’ book Call Me Bill (Conundrum Press) reveals the life of ‘the mysterious female sailor’, who died in the 1873 wreck of the SS Atlantic. Listen to the podcast here.

The Gail and Stephen A. Jarislowsky Institute for Studies in Canadian Art at Concordia University is pleased to present Craft & Craftivism: A Biographical Dictionary of Contemporary Ceramic, Fibre, and Glass Artists in Canada, a free, three-volume e-publication co-edited by Loren Lerner, Janice Anderson, Shannon Stride, and Karine Antaki. This publication features professional biographies of nearly 350 artists, with an emphasis on the artists’ works in relation to materials, techniques, processes, creative inspiration, and artistic vision. Also featured are artists who blend craft with activism, using their works to convey social and political commentary, challenge the status quo, and advocate for change.

Gallery on Lincoln, a contemporary fine art gallery owned and operated by 11 respected Nova Scotia artist-entrepreneurs, officially opened its doors on April 3, 2025. Gallery on Lincoln is located at 167 Lincoln Street, in the very heart of “Gallery Row” in Lunenburg, NS – one of Canada’s most-loved UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The gallery features a dynamic collection of contemporary landscape, figurative, still life, and abstract works created by a talented and professional group of artists whose work is held in public and private collections around the world. Gallery artists include Catherine Bagnell Styles, Michelle Darwin, MJ Dominey, Lynn Ellis, Janet Griffen, Mary Kersell, Paulette Melanson, Mary Morey, David Shimp, Katy Maria Shimp, and Sharon Wadsworth- Smith.

Creative Pictou County is thrilled to have an artist studio in the new deCoste Culture Hub at 99 Water Street in Pictou. This beautiful open space is ready for artists to teach their craft to the community. Artists can rent on an hourly basis. For full details including rental rates and how to apply, please visit their website.

There are many things to consider when shipping art abroad. Each country has its own requirements for temporary and permanent imports. Prepare in advance to avoid unexpected travel delays! Make sure you have your paperwork in order ahead of time. Check out CARFAC’s tips on taking artwork over the border. Due to ongoing tariff discussions between Canada and the United States, there may be changes affecting the movement of artworks across the border. They strongly recommend consulting a customs broker and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for the most up-to-date and accurate information on current regulations and potential costs. If you want to know more about the ever changing situation with tariffs, they have a note on that as well.

The Canadian government has passed Bill S-202 which will create Canada’s first parliamentary visual artist laureate (like the poet laureate). The visual artist laureate position will be a two-year term, with a mandate to promote, foster, develop and bring awareness to the visual arts in Canada. The visual arts laureate will produce art or “cause to be produced artistic creations at the request of the Speaker, especially for use in Parliament on occasions of state,” as well as sponsor artistic events, including exhibitions, and give advice on the collection and acquisitions for the Library of Parliament. Details are still being finalized, but the position will be open to all Canadians and the primary official language will alternate.  Applications for the new position will be made to the Library of Parliament. The Speaker of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Commons will select the parliamentary visual artist laureate from three names submitted in confidence by a committee that includes the Parliamentary Librarian of Canada, the director of the National Gallery of Canada, the commissioner of Official Languages for Canada, the chairperson of the Canada Council for the Arts and the president of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts or designates.

Nova Scotia based Caribou Loft Art Prints is a growing e-commerce retailer specializing in large format giclée art prints with a Canadian influence. They’re currently seeking up-and-coming Canadian artists, painters, photographers and digital creators to partner with them in an endeavour to bring Canadian inspired art to the home decor market. Artists represented at the loft will remain full copyright holders of their work, receive a 30% commission on sales and rentals, and receive a 10% discount at their print lab. They’re also waiving all fees associated with the digital scanning of any artwork under contract with the loft where applicable. All styles are encouraged to submit. Please be sure to tell them about yourself and include links to your work. They’re also happy to answer any questions you may have. Visit www.caribouloft.art or e-mail your submissions directly to: submissions@caribouloft.art.

ArtSeen is a digital venue that showcases contemporary art programming, creators and practices from a variety of artist-run and community arts organisations. In spring of 2020 ARTSPLACE, located in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, was awarded funding through the Canada Council Digital Strategy Fund to develop capacity to run hybrid (digital and in-person) programming and to develop a strategy to amplify its programming impact. After a period of consultation with various stakeholders, it was decided creating a website designed as a digital venue would best serve our shared initiatives. ArtSeen first went live in Fall 2022 and officially launched December 2023. The project continues to recruit partners to work collaboratively, broaden contemporary art audiences and amplify the work of artist-run and community-led initiatives and the artists they present. Would your gallery or organisation like to be an ArtSeen collaborator?
ArtSeen is managed and maintained by ARTSPLACE. They are always looking to add to our community of contributing partners. If your organisation is interested in learning more about how to join ArtSeen, please contact admin@arcac.ca.

Therapeutic Arts Practitioner Gerard McNeil MEd, BEd (VAS), BFA,TAPC is excited to offer a new therapeutic arts service. This service is designed for those who want new ways to explore personal growth, stress reduction and overall mental wellness. To facilitate these therapeutic services a range of media from drawing to digital imaging will be utilized with a focus on personal development and wellness for individuals and community wellness for organizations and groups. McNeil is offering Personal Development and Wellness sessions (including Creative Wellness Through the Lens, and Creative Wellness One–to–One) as well as Community Wellness (Creative Wellness Through Connections). For more information about this therapeutic arts service, you can check out the website www.gerardmcneil.com/creative-wellness.html, contact Gerard by phone at 902-456-0861 or by e-mail at gmcneiltap@gmail.com.

Do you like to sketch? Want to share your passion for urban sketching with other like minded artists? Why not join the Urban Sketchers Halifax Facebook group.  Here you can share your urban sketches with other members and you will have the opportunity to attend a weekly sketchout.  Each week, they meet at a different location and sketch that location on-site in your medium of choice.  You are not obligated to attend each week, but the opportunity is there.  They are a very friendly, helpful group that love to share their passion for urban sketching.  They would love to have you join.  No fees of any kind.

Plein air painting/sketching immerses you in your surroundings. Artists often find their outdoor work is more spontaneous and vibrant than studio work. To succeed you need simply need to be persistent, and patient. Painting with others builds camaraderie and self-confidence. We recommend you join in group critiques. They are educational and act as social contact. Several plein air groups exist in Nova Scotia. Of those listed here, the groups meet weekly, rain or shine. You decide whether to come or not. No event is canceled or rescheduled due to weather. PAAHRM and PAAAV (Plein Air Artists HRM and Plein Air Artists Annapolis Valley) meet Thursdays with an optional date on a weekend. Some prefer weekdays. Some prefer weekends. Some like to go twice to each paint-out site. There are no fees involved with any of these groups. All artistic levels are accepted.

AFCOOP is proud to begin streaming 50 selected works from their nearly 50 years of helping members and the greater community make great films! There is so much work in the basements and closets of Atlantic filmmakers that is in danger of being lost to time. The AFCOOP Archives seeks to address this imminent loss by providing digital storage and an online streaming portal for the preservation and dissemination of AFCOOP members’ and community films.

Artists in Canada has a fixed pension plan for visual artists. Started in 2016. This Pension Plan is for all Canadian Artists (Visual Artists, Musicians, Writers, Performance, Graphic, Web development and Film Artists). Commercial, Public Art Galleries and Art Resource businesses and their staff are also eligible.

ART= WORK T-Shirts Available! VANL-CARFAC is excited to be re-launching the ART=WORK campaign in partnership with the Mary MacDonald Foundation. This joint fundraiser will support visual artists, curators, and art workers living in Newfoundland and Labrador through programs and awards distributed by their organizations. The T-shirts are $20 each and come in sizes include, XS (ladies S), S, M, L, XL, 2XL.

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Awards and Funding

Tourism Nova Scotia is offering the Tourism Digital Assistance Program for Communities which will provide up to $15,000 in services from a qualified digital expert to help communities bridge the digital gap and improve their online marketing and services to attract visitors and encourage spending. The pilot program expands on the successful Tourism Digital Assistance Program for businesses and will also be delivered in partnership with Digital Nova Scotia.

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Education

The NSCAD Extended Studies Spring term is just about to bloom! Classes begin soon. What will you MAKE? They have Adult Classes including classic courses and new offerings this term, including a bootcamp for Drawing Hands and Feet, Introductory Black and White Film Photography, Intro to Throwing, Watercolour Painting, Make Do and Mend,  Digital Illustration and more. You can choose between in person and online courses. They also have classes for teens and kids coming up soon, including Saturday morning or afternoon art classes this spring for ages 5-18.

Lunenburg School of the Arts is offering Tales of a Journeyman Architect, a Public Lecture by Richard Doucette on Thursday, April 16 at 7 pm. Presented by the South Shore Network of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. This is a free event, no registration required. Richard Doucette will discuss lessons learned over 40 years of a somewhat out-of-the-box practice, drawing on representative projects for your viewing and listening pleasure, with a pretty decent slideshow and talk. He will touch on confluences that make for successful projects or not, Architect-led design-build and more.

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Have you seen all the great workshops going on at Makers Studio and Art Market in Windsor? They have classes in pottery, loom weaving, needle felting, rag rug making, arranging dried flowers, and more. They have options at various levels of experience and the workshops are very reasonably priced. They also have drop-in days for pottery if you want to book a session on the wheel.

Lunenburg School of the Arts offers workshops led by professional art educators and working artists. Their Summer courses are filling up quick — don’t delay, register today! The small and intimate class sizes allow students to work closely with instructors and each other, fostering self-expression in a supportive atmosphere. LSA offers courses in a wide variety of mediums, our programs encourage exploration, discovery and development of skills and ideas.

Deanne Fitzpatrick Rug Hooking Studio in Amherst has just finished creating something they’re really proud of: Create Beauty Everyday an 88-page, ad-free magazine all about art, creativity, and rug hooking. It’s filled with beautiful imagery and heartfelt stories from artists and makers from across Canada and the US, people who find beauty in the everyday. They are excited to connect with new artists and craftspeople to feature in future issues. Check out their magazine here and all their online courses here.

Wondering what a tariff is, how it’s collected, and how it affects Canadian artists? With so much uncertainty in our trade relations with the US, Canadian artists who sell art in the US or rely on American materials could be facing rising costs and new export challenges. Staying on top of changes to export rules can be frustrating and stressful. With this in mind, CARFAC has compiled some resources to help you navigate this challenging environment. Check out their resources on what Canadian artists need to know about US tariffs.

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Employment 

Are you a university or college student who is passionate about public art and creative activities? Antigonish Culture Alive is hiring two post-secondary students for the summer to contribute to their summer arts events in preparation for the annual fall arts festival, Antigonight!  You can find the job descriptions for the Community Arts Coordinator (focusing on arts programming and pre-festival administration) and the Community Engagement Coordinator (focusing on social media, website management, online and physical promotion, and digital organization) on their website. These are is a 35 hours a week contract positions with a salary at $18.75/hr plus a $250 stipend for work up to 16 hours during festival weekend. Total hours of contract is 490 over 14 weeks. Deadline: April 19. 

The Dalhousie Art Gallery in Halifax is looking for a Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator to join their team. Reporting to the Director and Curator and working closely with the Gallery team, the Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator supports communications, marketing, and outreach for exhibitions, public programs, and community engagement initiatives. This position is well suited to an emerging communications professional interested in gaining hands-on experience in a university art gallery environment. This is a Young Canada Works position between May 25, 2026 to January 15, 2027, which pays $25.00/hour, 30 hours/week. Deadline: April 26, 11:59 pm (Atlantic time).

Salt Spring National Art Prize Society is seeking a skilled Executive Director to help them deliver their mission and contribute to realizing their vision. This is a new position. Reporting to the SSNAPS Board of Directors, with day-to-day liaison with the Board Chair, and working closely in partnership with an experienced Curatorial Director, the Executive Director will oversee the strategic and operational efficiencies of our programs and staff. The Executive Director will be a highly effective leader with excellent communication skills and decisiveness, along with an appreciation of the importance of visual arts. They will oversee corporate communications and the deployment of technology in program delivery and develop and implement a successful fundraising plan. Experience in overseeing contract staff is essential; the demonstrated ability to establish relationships with local community groups and artists is a plus. This is a 50% part time ongoing position with flexible remote hours. The salary level is commensurate with experience based on an annual salary level of $75,000 to $95,000 per annum and pro-rated to 50% for this part time position. Deadline: May 1.

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Confederation Centre in PEI is hiring a Curator. Reporting to the Director of Confederation Centre Art Gallery (CCAG), the Curator directs the gallery’s exhibition and public programming initiatives and oversees collecting, research and publications. The Curator is the public face of the artistic direction of CCAG, mediating between the work of Canadian artists and publics. The Curator plays a key role in cultivating and sustaining strong, long-term relationships with artists, donors, Board members, staff, volunteers, and other CCAG stakeholders, including a variety of engaged publics. The ideal candidate is a creative, self-driven professional with exceptional interpersonal and organizational abilities. They possess a well-established network and a strong knowledge base in Canadian and contemporary art. The Curator is expected to travel for studio visits, research, and relationship-building opportunities. They encourage applications from the BIPOC community, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Where requested, they will provide accommodations to candidates for all aspects of the recruitment and selection process. This position is represented by The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Local B906. The starting annual salary as of April 1, 2026 (0-6 months) is $69,574. This is a full-time, permanent position for 37.5 hours per week.

Spindrift Gallery in Peggy’s Cove is hiring a seasonal Gallery Attendant. The gallery showcases historical exhibits and fine art by Atlantic Canadian artists and they are seeking an enthusiastic, curious, and dedicated person to assist with orienting diverse visitors, making them feel welcome, and helping them engage with the exhibits and collections. Reporting to the Gallery Coordinator and Schoolhouse Coordinator, this position will involve performing all required POS transactions, both cash and credit card transactions efficiently and accurately; receiving, handling, replenishing, and processing incoming products; assisting with additional programming and set-up for events; supporting gallery functions such as opening and closing the gallery, sales (artwork and merchandise), and more. The preferred candidate will enjoy working with the public; have a passion for the visual arts and history through demonstrated experience or education; be comfortable working independently as well as with a team; be an energetic self-starter; be responsible, organized, and professional. This is a seasonal/ part time, 6 months contract position paying $18 per hour. Expected start date: May 15, 2026. No deadline posted.

Come to work at Summer Camp at Ross Creek! They have great camp jobs for youth between 19-30 who love the arts, care about making great experiences for kids and who want to spend the summer in a fabulous and beautiful location surrounded by artists and nature in a beautiful campus with forest, fields and ponds, all overlooking the Bay of Fundy. They welcome applications from across Canada. If you don’t have prior camp experience, that’s not a problem! All camp staff go through an extensive Staff Training which includes the ins and outs of working at camp, including recreational activities meant to build their team for the summer. Deadline: April 15.

Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design is looking for screen printing and printmaking instructors to lead engaging, hands-on workshops in their studios in Sydney. They’re seeking creative individuals who love sharing their skills and inspiring others. If you’re passionate about teaching and enjoy working with makers of all experience levels, they’d love to connect! What you’ll do: Create fun, informative lesson plans; Demonstrate screen printing/printmaking techniques;   Guide participants through their projects; Ensure safe and proper use of tools and materials. Know someone who’d be a great fit? To apply, please email your resume and a brief overview of your teaching experience to tammy@capebretoncraft.com.

A list of presenters/galleries that pay the CARFAC/RAAV Minimum Fee for artist exhibitions was compiled by CARFAC Maritimes to guide the membership in their search for paying venues. You will find public galleries, galleries in other establishments, artist cooperatives and artist run centres. They will update the list on a regular basis. Should you find any information missing or incorrect, kindly let them know at anna.rail@carfacmaritimes.org  with the pertinent information and they will make the necessary changes immediately. Here is the link to the list:  http://www.carfacmaritimes.org/en/exhibition-opportunities-maritimes/

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Events

Head to the Cape Breton Centre for Craft & Design for the opening of Ground Rules: Materia this Thursday, April 16, at 5 pm! They’re excited to welcome you to this powerful new exhibition curated by Fabiyino Germain-Bajowa, bringing together the work of 12 artists across ceramics, textiles, painting, sculpture, and sound. Ground Rules: Materia explores how the smallest moments—shaped by land, movement, and shared experience—come together to influence our collective future. Developed during a five-day residency in Cape Breton Highlands National Park last June, the exhibition invites visitors to slow down, look closer, and reflect on the quiet power held in everyday details. Join them for an evening of art, conversation, and community. The exhibition runs April 16 – June 26.

Interested in learning more about film-making? Looking for ways to meet other creatively minded people in north eastern Nova Scotia? Tonight is the Meet and Greet for the upcoming CANZ 48 Hour Film Challenge in Antigonish! The CANZ 48 Hour Film Challenge is a fast-paced and fun filmmaking event for the Antigonish community. Teams will race the clock to create a short film in just two days. Whether you’re an experienced filmmaker or trying it for the first time, the challenge is designed to be creative, collaborative, and welcoming to everyone. The48 hour Film Challenge Kickoff is Friday, April 17. Have one representative from your team arrive at the Antigonish Library between 1 and 4pm to pick up the official instruction package. Once your team receives the package, the clock starts. You will have 48 hours to write, shoot, and edit your film before submitting it. Completed films must be uploaded by 4 pm on Sunday, April 19th.

Peer Gallery opens it’s doors for our 25th season on April 17th with an exciting all-members exhibition. Open Thursday through Sunday 12:30 to 4:30. Allyson Simmie, Anne Tweed, Audrey Nicoll, Barb McLean, Carol Morrow, Chris Joyce, Diana Baldwin, Doug Boutilier, Joan Bruneau, Melissa Nichols-McConnell, Sally Warren, Sharon Fox Cranston, Teresa Bergen and Tom Ward. Members continue showing through until May 17th. A feature show of original prints work by Diana Baldwin and Ed Porter entitled Landscapes of the Heart and Mind runs from May 6th through 17th. Open daily (except Monday) from 12:30 to 4:30. Artist’s Reception May 9th. Remembering a retrospective of the work of Peer founder Susan Hudson RCA (1941 – 2026) will fill the gallery from May 19th through 31st.

If These Trees Could Talk – Sculpture in Point Pleasant Park! NSCAD Students in Mathew Reichertz and Kim Morgan’s interdisciplinary site specific class present their public art works in Point Pleasant Park. The exhibition will be on display until May 14 in Point Pleasant Park, various locations.

Postcards From Home explores ideas of “home” – as a physical structure, a geographic location, a community of people, and as a mindset. Created by photographic artist Kas Stone, this exhibition invites you to take a closer look at the place that you call home. It’s on at the Marigold Cultural Centre MMFI Gallery, 605 Prince Street, Truro from April 2 – 29.

National Canadian Film Day: The Elbows Linked Edition at ARTSPLACE is April 15 in Annapolis Royal. ARTSPLACE is pleased to join the national celebration of Canadian cinema with a special double bill screening in honour of National Canadian Film Day (CanFilmDay) on Wednesday, April 15. Presented in partnership with REEL CANADA, this annual event is a coast-to-coast tribute to Canadian film and storytelling, inviting communities to come together to experience the richness and diversity of our national cinema. More than ever, Canadians need a moment to take a deep breath together. We need community. The ARTSPLACE screening lineup for 2026 features two distinctive Canadian films: Haida Modern 2 pm | 1 h 25 min and The Apprentice 4 pm | 2 h 2 min. Screenings are upstairs at ARTSPLACE and open to the public. Admission is free (donations welcomed), so join in and celebrate the stories that link us together.

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Harvest Gallery in Wolfville presents WOMEN’S WORK, a now-annual exhibition. WOMEN’S WORK is a striking and inspiring celebration of creativity, talent, and the women who enrich our lives. As the gallery’s first exhibition of the new year, this show sets the tone for the months ahead, ushering in a fresh season of artistry and leading us beautifully into spring. Opening on Saturday, March 7, 1 – 3pm (just one day ahead of International Women’s Day), WOMEN’S WORK highlights new works from the 31 distinguished female artists on the gallery’s roster. Including: Jeanne A. Smith, Bonnie Baker, Diana Baldwin, Poppy Balser, Marla Benton, Terry-Lee Bourgeois King, Berkeley Brown, Marianne Brown, Holly Carr, Cecil Day, Leya Evelyn, Doretta Groenendyk, Sheri Hancock, Naomi Beth Hill, Debra Kuzyk, Sydney Lancaster, Mary-Jane Lundy, Laura Macdonald, Dawn MacNutt, Shelley Mansel, Joyce Martin, Angela Melanson, Mindy Moore, Sanna Rahola, Mary Reardon, Rachel Reeve, Julie Rosvall, Kath K. Rutherford, Lynda Shalagan, Anna Syperek & Melissa Townsend. Guests are invited to meet the artists, enjoy light refreshments, and spend time celebrating.

You’re invited to the opening of Conversation Threads at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, presenting works by Atlantic Canadian weavers, sculptors, quiltmakers, basket makers, and storytellers.

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Residencies

During the summer season, Craft Nova Scotia’s Centre for Craft invites emerging craft artists to participate in a three-month creation and presentation residency. Participants in this program are granted access to the studio of their chosen medium, where they will have the freedom to work independently on a project. Residents will receive regular instruction from a Technical Advisor on how to set up their own studio, maintain equipment, and adhere to health and safety standards. Additionally, residents will collaborate to plan and install a group exhibition at the Mary E. Black Gallery,  showcasing the works created during this time. Craft Nova Scotia’s Centre for Craft welcomes proposals for their ceramic, jewellery, weaving, glass/mixed media and woodworking studios for Summer 2026. Artists working in paper, fibre, and other craft-based interdisciplinary practices that need space or access to a kitchen facility are encouraged to specify their requirements in their application. This program is for emerging makers (0–5 years of professional experience) who are seeking studio space and learning opportunities to further their experience in professional art production and presentation. The program runs from June 1st – September 5, 2026 and costs $300 per month, for a total of $900. Deadline: April 19, 11:59 pm.

The Imago Artist-Run Print Studio in Moncton, NB invites artists who work in printmaking to apply to come and work in their studio for 2 to 3 week residency. Imago offers a research space, a functional studio and programming that reflects current trends in visual arts. The artist must have expertise in the field of printmaking they propose in their project. The artist must be a Canadian citizen or resident, or hold a valid Canadian work permit at the time of the residency, living outside of the Greater Moncton area. The residency must start between September 1st 2026 and March 31st 2027. Artists will receive a $600 artist fee per week of residency. Travel expenses reimbursed (full airfare within Canada or up to a maximum of $600 for other means of transportation, with proof of receipts). Accommodations and 24h access to the studio provided during residency. Deadline: May 1.

The Grantham Foundation residency program consists of a four-week research-creation stay at the Foundation, followed by a public presentation of the works in progress (residency showcase). This stay offers artists in residence time for reflection and creation on the Foundation’s premises, as well as the opportunity to build connections with the diverse communities of Centre-du-Québec, a predominantly Francophone region. For this stage, the selected artist will receive a grant of $5,000 CAD. While not making it a requirement, the Grantham Foundation encourages artists to submit projects inspired by the specific characteristics of the environment in which the Foundation is located. The program is aimed at visual artists residing in Quebec, Canada or abroad, with a minimum of five years of professional practice. Submitted projects must align with the mission and objectives of the Grantham Foundation. By visual arts, the expert committee means practices recognized as such professionally: photographic, installation, sculptural, pictorial, graphic and performance practices, as well as sound, digital and media arts. The Foundation’s pavilion is located on the banks of a small river, in a wooded area at the edge of a forest, in the French-speaking municipality of Saint-Edmond-de-Grantham, about 100 km east of Montreal. Deadline: May 27.

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The Adventure Filmmakers Workshop is an exceptional chance for independent and emerging filmmakers to advance their skills under the guidance of two of the world’s premier and proven adventure filmmakers. During a jam-packed ten days in the fall, participants will hone their craft, strengthen their skills, and network and mingle with fellow filmmakers, industry insiders, and decision-makers. This all takes place within the core of the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival, where epic stories are told through the eyes of adventurers, authors, photographers, and filmmakers from around the globe. Workshop sessions will help participants sharpen their narrative and vision, organize their workflow, develop audio and editing techniques, and perfect their pitches. They pack the days with hands-on practice, lively discussion, and brainstorming. There will be industry insiders as guest speakers, offering rare access to potential mentors, collaborators, sponsors, and backers. The workshop includes on-campus lodging and meals — all participants have to do is focus on their craft and soak up the inspiration. The program dates are October 30 – November 8, 2026. The cost is $4,448.85 but they offer scholarships that reduce the fee to $1,446.64. Deadline: April 15.

Banff International Curatorial Institute: Curating While Black. Curating While Black is a residency and embedded symposia intended for Black curators interested in moving forward an individual research project in tandem with participation in group discussions and learning opportunities amongst the cohort and with program faculty. This hybrid program begins with one week online followed by two weeks in person at Banff Centre, presented through the Banff International Curatorial Institute (BICI). Organized through Walter Phillips Gallery, BICI provides research-based programs for curators, arts writers, theorists, artists, and academics to explore curatorial research, pedagogy and practice, visual art criticism, and writing. Program Dates: January 25 – February 12, 2027. They welcome applicants who identify as Black (18+), of all backgrounds, gender identities and expressions to apply.They are pleased to offer scholarships to support participants in this program. Standard scholarships cover 100% of tuition fees, and up to 25% of meal plan and accommodation costs. Deadline: May 13.

Bareneedstudios Artist Retreat and Residency is located in Bareneed on the Port de Grave Peninsula, a one hour drive west from St. Johns, Newfoundland. The year-round dual studio space offers artists, curators and creative types a getaway from their everyday existence – an experience framed within a unique geographic and cultural context. Bareneedstudios encourages cultural exchange through local, provincial, national and international artists-in residence for durations of one to six months. It will accept artists of all kinds, but with some exceptions based on the materials used. Art modalities sustained by Bareneedstudios but not limited to include: visual arts, small scale sculpture, writing, film-making, theatre arts, music, craft, dance. The residency costs $600 CAN per studio per week and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Ou Gallery is a warm and beautiful space curated to support creatives in their artistic journey on Vancouver Island; a stunning, nature-filled place. Come to decompress, gather new inspiration alongside like-minded artists and writers, and devote space and time to create. The Ou-telier is an independent and process based residency; a place for you to decompress, experiment, research and play. They love hosting folks who are self-directed, focused and kind, and our hope is that you will leave the residency feeling rested, renewed and inspired. They welcome applications from emerging and established writers, painters, photographers, textile and 2D artists. Artists have 24/hr access to their own designated studio in a shared space. Each studio is approx. 250 square feet in a historic boatbuilding workshop with open rafters and original fir floors. Fees: 2 weeks $1,250 CAD, 4 weeks $2,500 CAD. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

A Position on Retreat focuses on creating experiences of connection to the natural world, personal well-being, and self-actualization to cultivate creative expression and flow. They aim to create experiences between the natural world of Lake Cowichan on Vancouver Island and the curated groups of artists that reorient us to the collective goals of peace, acceptance, and wholeness. The program welcomes all media of artistic expression, including painting, drawing, digital photography, video, film, 3D animation, AI, creative coding, game development, XR, emerging digital practices, web3, creative and academic writing, and more. They aim to balance digital/emerging practices with traditional practices. Residents can select whether they would like individual/self-directed time or if they would like to participate in skill and conceptual development. They also offer thematic residencies throughout the year. Two-week residencies cost $1300. There is no deadline to apply.

Studio H Canada International Artist Residency and the Northern Women Arts Collaborative are excited to announce a new textile residency in honour of artist, activist, and social worker Irene Borins Ash (1952-2020). Irene was passionate about weaving and art in all its forms. She gifted the studio her Leclerc Tapestry Loom and to honour her memory and her art, we are now offering a partially funded, one-month intensive textile residency. This residency is open to proposals of experimental to traditional and hybrid approaches to weaving. Textile artists interested in tapestry weaving using the Leclerc Loom (Tissart model pre-1990), are invited to apply for this special residency to undertake new work and research in Metchosin, BC Canada – the unceded territories of the Sci’anew First Nation. The selected artist may choose a one-month period for the residency, but some months may be more relevant in the local community. The selected artist is welcome to propose a longer period for the residency which may not be fully funded. $1,500 CAD stipend. January 2024-April 2024.

Studio H Canada art residency and exchange is hosted in Metchosin, a rural municipality of Victoria, BC. Artists from around the world and Canada, in all disciplines and media, are invited to engage in collaborative projects or to develop new work on their own in this creative and inspiring setting. The vision of the Studio H Canada Art Residency program is to create meaningful, collaborative connections between artists from around the world and Canada, in all media and walks of life, that will result in new art, opportunities, friendships, and supportive circles of creativity. Artists can create, exhibit, do public presentations and workshops, research, and network. Fees for the art residency average $40 – $60 per day. There is no deadline to apply.

The Ross Creek Centre for the Arts in Canning offers residencies to professional artists working in one or more of the following media: visual art, writing, theatre, dance, film, music, performance art, photography, fibre arts and video. Their residencies provide a spectacular rural environment free from distraction. Each season offers a unique and changing landscape guaranteed to inspire artists of all disciplines. Apply individually or as a collaborative team looking to make some creative explorations in a safe and welcoming space. Ongoing submissions are welcome.

Apply to be an Artist-in-Residence at the Caetani Cultural Centre (a historic heritage house) in the small town of Vernon, BC. The residency is open to emerging and established artists and writers in most mediums: installation, earthworks, sculpture, painting, drawing, photography, digital media, printmaking, etc. Fees range from $10 – $35 per day, depending on the room, studio and season. There is a minimum two week stay. Applications for Caetani Cultural Centre’s Self-Directed Artist-in-Residence Program are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Looking for artist residencies? Res Artis: Worldwide Network of Arts Residencies is a 26 year old network of arts residency operators from around the globe. Their easy to navigate website has tons of listing of open calls from organizations around the world, or you can search their list of residencies by location, disciplines, fees, and more. They also link all the residency descriptions back to the individual arts organizations websites.

The 360 Xochi Quetzal Artist and Writer’s Residency Program is located in Chapala, Jalisco, Mexico on the shores of the largest lake in the country where the perfect year-round climate and stunning lake and mountain views have long established the region as an international artist mecca. They now offer four live/work spaces. Residents will be inspired by the natural beauty, history and culture of this special part of central Mexico. They offer a personal residency that can be applied for throughout the year.

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Submissions

Inkwell Modern Handmade Boutique in Halifax is seeking to consign handmade products for their retail and online stores! Do you have work you’d like to see featured at Inkwell? Or maybe you know a maker who produces great handmade items? The talent of the local and international maker community is infinite. They believe representation matters and those who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Disabled and any minority groups are encouraged to apply. Know a maker who might be interested in working with Inkwell? They look forward to seeing what you’ve been making!

The J. Franklin Wright Gallery in Port Hawkesbury welcomes submissions from visual artists at all stages of their career for their 2022 season. Submissions must include; CV, Biography – 100 words max, Project Proposal – 500 words max (please note in your proposal whether there are any special requirements), 5- 10 images relevant to your project (Image list – artist’s name, title of work, medium, dimensions and date). Please see their page for more information and floor plan of the gallery. There are no hanging fees; however, a 25% commission from sales arranged directly between the artist and the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre is charged. Please forward submissions to: ryansharon2012@gmail.com. There is no deadline for submissions.

The CSARN Mentoring Program. CSARN (the Canadian Senior Artists Resource Network) offers emerging and transitioning professional artists the guidance of a mentor with a lifetime of talent and experience to share. Their award-winning mentors have inspired and empowered and they want to empower the next generation of artists so that they also can change the world. There is no cost to our program. In fact, mentors for their time and cover mentees’ expenses. Mentors and mentees must be professional artists. If you are not sure you qualify, read the Canadian Artist Code. For more information see their website. 

The Clay and Glass Gallery in Waterloo is looking to build a database of artists who work with glass, clay, and ceramics. This database would be for research purposes with the intention of finding artists to potentially work with in the future- whether that is through exhibition opportunities or otherwise. Interested artists are encouraged to visit the following link: https://forms.gle/cnxk3rob6yZp19uS8 or contact Cheyenne Mapplebeck directly at Cheyenne.mapplebeck@gmail.com.

C Magazine is seeking to expand their pool of writers. Do you want to write for C Magazine? If yes, enter yourself in their Writer Directory. The purpose of this directory is to allow writers at all experience levels to express interest in working with C Magazine, and to tell them a bit about themselves, without pitching a specific piece. By completing this form, you are consenting to the possibility that you could be contacted by C’s editorial team for an assignment at any time. They pay all contributors a minimum of 35 cents/word (CAD).  If you’d like to pitch something specific, please visit the submissions page to read about C Magazine’s sections, style, and submission guidelines.

Artwork Archive just published their Complete Guide to Artist Grants and Opportunities. They’ve compiled a list of artist grants, residencies, and calls-for-entry in the upcoming year and although some of them are US specific, there are several international opportunities as well. You can download a free copy of the guide and start submitting your applications!

The Teichert Gallery at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia is currently accepting submissions. New works are juried biweekly by their volunteer accessions committee who meet every other Monday. The deadline for submission is every other Sunday before 3pm. Artists may submit up to five works at a time. Please have your works titled (title should be written on the back of the work along with your name) and attach or email your biography, CV, or both. You will need to determine the sale price for you work. The gallery’s commission rate is 35%. If you are unsure about pricing your work they encourage you to browse around the gallery and look at comparable works. Works may be dropped off anytime during gallery hours, no need to set up an appointment. For more information see their submission guidelines.

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Nova Scotia Exhibition Listings

ANNA LEONOWENS GALLERY (NSCAD), HALIFAX: Gallery 1: Mulligan, Forbes Sang; Gallery 2: The Clown, the Witch and the Vampire, Nadine Sures: Gallery 3: Shadowgraphs, Sarah Young, April 7 – 18.

ART GALLERY OF NOVA SCOTIA, HALIFAX: Conceptual Art and the Camera, January 24 – November 30. Nova Scotia Spotlight: Cecil Day, until May 1. Mi’kma’ki Artists’ Spotlight: Gordon Sparks, until September 13. Jawbone Corner: Watercolours of Henry M. Rosenberg, ongoing. Blacklight, May 3 – ongoing. From One to Many Natures, ongoing. Oluseye: Negro Crossing, until March 29. TA’N A’SIKATIKL SIPU’L | CONFLUENCE, ongoing. Léopold L. Foulem: Reshaping Function, ongoing. Maud Lewis, ongoing. Conversation Threads, February 28 – May 3. Conversations With Jipijka’m, Diane Langevin, until May 4.

ARTSPLACE, ANNAPOLIS ROYAL: In the Spirit of Colour, Ross Reynolds; Pilgrimage Through Uncertain Worlds, Frank Forestall; Wandering Through Trees, Group exhibition project of The Robert Pope Foundation; Afterburn, Group exhibition, April 18 – May 30. Opening reception: April 18, 12 – 2 pm.

CAPE BRETON CENTRE FOR CRAFT & DESIGN, SYDNEY: Ground Rules: Materia, Diana Brown, Elise Campbell, Ashley Anne Clark, Miranda Crabtree, Daniel Edmonds, Kristi Farrier, Caoife Garvey, Teresa Jolliffe, Mary Larade, Liam Ross, Cyd Sparrow, and Catherine Vardy, April 16 – June 26.

CAPE BRETON UNIVERSITY ART GALLERY, SYDNEY: Hot Pursuit (The Fabled Chase), The Powers (Katherine Kline, Jessica Mensch, and Emily Pelstring), April 10 – June 19.

CHESTER ART CENTRE, CHESTER: Creative Seniors, April 9 – 19. She Sees It All, Rebecca Fisk, April 23 – May 17. Opening reception: April 23, 5 – 7pm.

THE CRAIG GALLERY, DARTMOUTH: Beautiful Huge New Property Coming Soon Near You, Charlie MacLean and Emma Chapman-Lin, March 31 – April 26.

DALHOUSIE ART GALLERY, HALIFAX: Present: Past / Future, Ed Pien, Co-curators Catherine Sicot and Pamela Edmonds, May 8 –  August 16.

DECOSTE CULTURE HUB, PICTOU: Into the Forest: Where the Future Grows, Christine Whelan, until May 17.

ELTUEK ARTS CENTRE, SYDNEY: Sailing, Paulina Osorio, February 7 – June 27.

14 BELLS FINE ART GALLERY, HALIFAX: It’s the Little Things, Tabatha Cass, May 9 – June 5. Opening reception: May 9, 1 – 3pm.

HARVEST GALLERY, WOLFVILLE: WOMEN’S WORK: Celebrating Female Artists, opened March 7.

HERMES, HALIFAX: Tallows. Smoke Points. Letdowns., Sally Wolchyn-Raab, April 18 – May 17. Opening reception:  April 18, 3 pm with artist talk at 4 pm.

ICE HOUSE GALLERY, TATAMAGOUCHE: Ce qu’emporte la mer/What the Sea Carries Away, Christophe Scott, March 14 – April 26.

KATZMAN ART PROJECTS, HALIFAX: Origins, Ivan Murphy, until April 25.

KHYBER CENTRE FOR THE ARTS, HALIFAX: Miya Turnbull | KREAM 2026, March 23 – April 16.

LUNENBURG ART GALLERY, LUNENBURG: Bloomin’, Group exhibition, April 3 – 25

LUNENBURG SCHOOL OF THE ARTS, LUNENBURG: Circle of Friends, Hangama Amiri, April 25 – May 30. Artist talk & Opening reception: April 25, 2 pm.

MMFI GALLERY (MARIGOLD CULTURAL CENTRE), TRURO: Postcards From Home, Kas Stone, April 2 – 29.

MARY E BLACK GALLERY, HALIFAX: TABU, Tyshan Wright, opened March 5.

MSVU ART GALLERY, HALIFAX: Plato’s Goon Cave, Hannah Epstein, February 7 – May 17.

PEER GALLERY, LUNENBURG: Celebrating our 25th Anniversary! Members exhibition with Allyson Simmie, Anne Tweed, Audrey Nicol, Barbara McLean, Carol Morrow, Christopher Joyce, Diana Baldwin, Douglas Boutilier, Joan Bruneau, Melissa Nichols-McConnel, Sally Warren, Sharon Fox Cranston, Teresa Bergen and Tom Ward, April 16 –  May. Opening: April 16, 12:30 – 4:30 pm. Landscapes of the Heart and Mind, Diana Baldwin and Ed Porter, May 6 – 17.

THE PEOPLE’S PLACE LIBRARY, ANTIGONISH: Change Is Afoot: an artist’s response to Trump, Janet Wallace, April. Meet the artist: April 11, 1:30 – 3:30 pm.

POINT PLEASANT PARK, HALIFAX: If These Trees Could Talk: Sculpture in Point Pleasant Park, NSCAD Students in Mathew Reichertz and Kim Morgan’s interdisciplinary site specific class, until May 14.

STFX ART GALLERY, ANTIGONISH: 2026 StFX Art Department Student Showcase, April 17 – May 3.

SMU ART GALLERY, HALIFAX: The Harbour View Motel, Sarah Sears & Meghan Macdonald, May 9 – July 12. Opening reception: May 8, 6 – 9pm.

SECORD GALLERY, HALIFAX: Totems and Tricksters, Frank Forrestall and Ian Gilson, April 10 – May 2.

THE SUNROOM (HALIFAX CENTRAL LIBRARY), HALIFAX: Jipijka’m Skin, Diane Langevin, March 29 – May 9.

TIDES CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY, KENTVILLE: Whispers of Wool: The Art of Becoming, Leslie McFarland, April 1 – 26.

TREATY SPACE GALLERY (NSCAD), HALIFAX: SANKOFA: Woven Echoes, Annisa Peralta, April 14 – 18.

LE TRÉCARRÉ, CHURCH POINT: C’est en pratiquant | Practice Makes, Véronique Hogan, Amy Paradis, and Marcel Saulnier, March 28 – May 8.

VIEWPOINT GALLERY, BEDFORD: Main Gallery: Through the Looking Glass, Heather Rose; April Fresh Eyes Guest Artist: Time & Tide, Haley Anne MacPhee; April Featured Member: Two Score, Doug Van Hemessen, April 2 – May 3.

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