Visual arts & new media

Art Acquisitions by Application

Grant subtitle
Apply to have your artwork become part of the AFA Art Collection
Select staff contact
Art Collections Consultant - Acquisitions
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply
Recipient type
Individual
Art discipline
Indigenous arts
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Art Acquisitions by Application program guidelines
Facebook description
Apply to have your artwork become part of the AFA Art Collection
Twitter title
Art Acquisitions by Application program guidelines
Twitter description
Apply to have your artwork become part of the AFA Art Collection
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This program supports Alberta's resident professional artists--individuals or ensembles--by purchasing their work for the permanent AFA Art Collection. Acquired artworks are showcased through AFA's outreach initiatives, including the Exhibition Loan Programs, Travelling Exhibition Program (TREX), Art Placement Programs, and the AFA art house.

Who can apply

Individual eligibility criteria

The AFA celebrates and supports diversity and is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible programs for all, free of barriers and discrimination. We recognize the unique contributions all artists make towards our community, and encourage applicants representing diverse communities including Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, women, people with disabilities, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

To be eligible for this acquisitions program, you must be a resident of Alberta. This means you:

  • Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Person with an open work or study permit from inside Canada
  • Have had your primary residence in Alberta for at least one full year before applying
  • Ordinarily live in Alberta for at least six months of each year.

Applicants must be in good standing with the AFA, with no outstanding projects or reporting obligations through any of the AFA's programs (i.e., AFA grant programs).

Current applicants to AFA grant programs and recipients of past AFA grants and awards are eligible to apply.

You must meet the AFA's definition of a professional artist. This means you must have participated in at least one public showing of your artwork and demonstrate an ongoing record of your artistic practice in your materials submitted. For more information on professional artist status, please see the AFA's Collections Development Plan.

Applicants must not be enrolled in any formal art-training program at the time of application. At least one full calendar year must have passed since graduating/completion of any formal art-training study before applying.

Artist residencies and PhD programs are considered eligible, provided they are self-directed and do not have a formal art-training component.

Ensembles of Artists

Ensembles of artists are eligible to apply provided that each member meets all the individual eligibility requirements listed above.

The ensemble must designate one artists as the primary contact and every member of the ensemble is required to complete and submit a Designation for Submission by a Commercial Gallery, Organization or Artist Agent form, designating the primary contact to act on their behalf.

Galleries/Agents

Applications from a gallery/agent are eligible if the featured artist meets all individual eligibility requirements and has signed a Designation for Submission by a Commercial Gallery, Organization or Artist Agent form.

Sole proprietorships must apply as a gallery/agent classification and the sole owner must complete the above Designation form.

Applicants may be required to provide additional information to confirm eligibility. This may include proof of residency and/or documentation of graduation from a formal art training program to determine eligibility. Other supporting materials may also be requested if needed to meet program requirements.

If you have questions about your or your gallery's eligibility, please reach out to us directly.

What does this funding support?

Artworks purchased through the Art Acquisition by Application program are included as part of the AFA Art Collection and made available for programming and public access through the AFA’s Travelling Exhibition Program, the online AFA Virtual Museum and AFA art house. The AFA Art Collection also functions as a key lending resource, providing artworks to public galleries, institutions, Government of Alberta offices, agencies, organizations, and not-for-profits through its Exhibition Loan Program, and Art Placement Program.

Eligible artworks must be:

  • Original artworks created by a living artist.
  • Produced within the last five years (calculated from the program deadline).
  • Suitable for any required travel for public display (including freight elevator access) and manageable by handling by 1-2 people.
  • In good physical condition.
  • Display-ready, with appropriate hanging mechanism or hardware if needed.
  • Priced at fair market value, based on the artist's past sales history and comparable works by peers. The AFA may request documentation to support the listed price.

Ineligible artworks:

  • The AFA no longer acquires film, video, moving image, digital media, or other time‑based media through this program.
  • Artworks that require immediate maintenance and are not display ready upon submission may be deemed ineligible. Please check your works to ensure they are free from the following conditions to maintain eligibility:
    • flaking or chipped paint, glaze, or other materials
    • curling, faded, ripped or otherwise damaged artworks
    • artworks with surface scratches or abrasions
    • artworks containing unstable materials that are not archival quality or are known to deteriorate over time
    • artworks that are soiled and require surface cleaning
    • artworks with warped or unstable stretchers

The following applications are also ineligible:

  • Student work or any artwork created while enrolled in a formal art‑training program.
  • Photographs or prints mounted directly onto aluminum, foamcore, or similar substrates.
  • Applied arts (e.g., gaming, architecture, interior design, commercial photography).
  • Graphic design, fashion design.
  • Published books containing artwork or photographs.
  • Reproductions or copies of original artworks (e.g., giclée prints).
  • Artworks using Indigenous imagery, themes, or stories without evidence of respectful engagement, appropriate permissions, or community protocols. Such works are considered appropriation and do not meet CARFAC’s Indigenous Protocols for the Visual Arts.

If you are unsure whether your artwork is eligible, you are encouraged to contact the AFA directly.

How to apply

We only accept applications through the Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) Front Office online application system. We must receive your online application through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 pm Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. 

Please give the system time to process your application so that the AFA receives notification of your submission before the deadline date.

GATE username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE Front Office username and password. Email us at registrationafa@gov.ab.ca to get your login information at least five business days prior to the application deadline. 

Please include:

  1. Your full legal name (if you are applying as an individual).
  2. The common name of your business/organization and the legal entity name (if you are applying as a gallery or agent)
  3. Your email address.

The username and password will be sent to the person at the email address provided.

If you already have a GATE profile for another AFA funding program, you can use this profile to apply to the Art Acquisition by Application Program. 

For detailed step-by-step instructions on how to make a GATE application, please download an Art Acquisition by Application-specific GATE Front Office user guide.

Making an Application

A strong application describes the specific artworks submitted and gives context to the artworks and the artists’ practice through the supporting documents. 

  • You may submit up to five artworks in a single application. All artworks must be included in the same application.
  • Only one application per artist is allowed per annual intake.
    If two applications are submitted for the same artist (for example, one from the artist and one from a gallery), only the first application received will be reviewed. The second will be considered ineligible for that intake.
  • You may submit multiple pieces that collectively form a single artwork—such as a diptych, triptych, or series—as one artwork, as long as:
    • The components are not sold separately.
    • The price listed is one total price for the entire set.
  • Your application should include all the relevant information needed for adjudicators to assess the submission as a standalone item as the adjudicators may not be aware of your artistic practice outside of the materials submitted. 

The following formlets are required in GATE:

  • Accurate details about each piece (up to five artworks) submitted within the GATE Artwork Submission List. 

This includes the artist’s name, title, date of work completion, if the work is framed, the edition number (if applicable), price, dimensions, category, medium, support and information on varnish/protective finish.

For photographs or print-based works, please ensure edition numbers and relevant details are included in the application. 

You are not required to frame an artwork for the second stage viewing, however if the artwork is already framed and the materials are archival (acid free mats and frames), please submit the frame with the artwork and include the cost of the frame in the artwork price. 

  • An artistic statement about the piece in the Artwork Submission List. 

The artist statement should be specific to the artworks submitted in the application and should place artworks in the context of your wider practice. 

You should include any relevant information needed to help the review panel of adjudicators consider the works. If there are installation instructions or other relevant details that do not come across in the images and will help the adjudicator understand the work, please enter it into the “Artistic Statement about this piece” text box alongside your artistic statement. 

  • The exhibition history of the artworks submitted. 

This information highlights where the artwork has been publicly displayed and helps adjudicators assess its potential role in AFA outreach programming.

If the artwork has not been exhibited before, please indicate by noting “has not been exhibited before.” 

Attachments

The following attachments must be submitted within GATE:

NEW! 

  • A 300–500 word artist biography. An artist biography is now required and should be included as an attachment on the attachments page in GATE (attached as Image #28). 

The artist biography is used to help understand an artist’s practice and background. If the artwork submitted is purchased by the AFA, the biography will be posted to the AFA website with the artist’s permission.

  • A professional artistic resume (or CV/Curriculum Vitae). 

The AFA understands that the term “professional” is subjective and may look different depending on cultural backgrounds and traditions.

For the purposes of the Art Acquisition by Application Program, artists are asked to demonstrate their professional status through their artistic resume/CV and by meeting at least one of the mandatory professional artist criteria outlined in the AFA’s Collections Development Plan: 

  1. Specialized training:
    This can include formal education, apprenticeships, or self-taught expertise (in a manner appropriate to their art tradition).
  2. Peer recognition:
    They are acknowledged by other artists within their field as skilled and professional.
  3. Public presentation:
    They have a history of exhibiting their work in public, professional contexts, such as galleries, exhibitions, or other public spaces.
  4. Professional practice:
    They engage in artistic activities with the intent of creating and selling their work, often as their primary or a significant source of income.
  5. Commitment to their craft:
    They dedicate significant time and effort to their artistic practice, treating it as a serious profession rather than a hobby. 

An artistic resume/CV can include: 

  • Any formal or informal art education and training completed (art courses, workshops, or other instruction and any qualifications earned such as certificates, degrees, etc.).
  • Your exhibition history (list the dates and locations of any public displays of your artwork, including exhibitions featuring artworks beyond those submitted in this application.
  • Any formal or informal recognition from the visual art community you have received (list grants, awards, distinctions and any related art activities such as teaching, curating, critical writing, membership in art organizations).
  • A list of any public, corporate or other collecting bodies that have acquired artwork from you for their collections.
  • If your practice is less traditional or you have been active in other ways, a written explanation of your practice, experience and commitment to your art should be included as part of the artistic resume/CV.
  • A signed Designation for Submission by a Commercial Gallery, Organization or Artist Agent form (if applying as a gallery, agent or ensemble of artists).
  • Up to 20 Digital photographs of the artworks (4 MB maximum file size, jpgs, pdfs accepted). 

Digital images help the adjudication panel evaluate the physical qualities of submitted artworks and determine which pieces will advance to the second stage, in-person art viewing at the AFA offices in Edmonton.

Digital photographs need to include clear, high-quality images of the artworks that convey the materials, and the techniques used in the artworks. Poor or unclear images can impede a proper assessment of your work. 

Images should include all parts of the artwork (front and back and installation views) to accurately portray the artwork. 

If you are submitting installation images where there are other artists’ artworks or artworks that are not being offered to the AFA being included in the image, please indicate this in your artistic statement about the piece to avoid the panel including these in their assessment. 

Applicants may be asked for additional information about artworks as needed. 

How will my application be assessed?

Expert Panel Evaluation

All artworks submitted to the Art Acquisition by Application Program are reviewed, adjudicated and selected by an external three-person, peer jury (expert panel). Expert panelists are chosen based on their artistic expertise to provide the AFA with independent, informed perspectives and encourage excellence within the Alberta arts community. 

The Art Acquisition by Application Program utilizes a two-stage adjudication. 

  • Stage 1 is the initial review and assessment of all applications submitted to the program deadline. A shortlist of artworks to be considered in-person is developed at this stage.
  • Stage 2 is an in-person viewing of shortlisted artworks at the AFA offices in Edmonton. Please note that while there is no public access to the AFA offices, staff of the AFA may see submissions on site during the stage 2 adjudication process.

Artwork Evaluation Criteria

The Criteria Governing Acquisitions from the AFA’s Collections Development Plan is used to evaluate all Art Acquisition by Application submissions, ensuring a rigorous and consistent evaluation of artworks once an artist’s eligibility has been established. 

Each artwork will be individually assessed for inclusion in the AFA Art Collection based on the following four areas of criteria/considerations from the Collections Development Plan: 

Public Access: 

  • Is the artwork in a size and a medium that can be easily shown and shared with the public in the AFA’s TREX Program or Art Placement Program (ex: Can the artwork be handled and set up by 1-2 people)?
  • Is the artwork able to withstand extended travel and display in non-traditional spaces?
  • Is the artwork likely to be selected for use in the TREX Program, Art Placement Program or AFA’s Exhibition programs?

Care and Conservation: 

  • Is the artwork fragile or will it require ongoing conservation?
  • Will the artwork require specialized storage and significant long-term maintenance and care?
  • Will there be additional costs to transport, frame, or maintain the artwork?

Curatorial Considerations: 

  • Is the artwork relevant to Alberta’s history and the visual arts in Alberta?
  • Does the artwork show original ideas, artistic excellence or material skill?
  • Has the artwork been exhibited or made available to the public?
  • Has the artwork received any formal awards or other public recognition?

Development of the AFA Art Collection: 

  • Is the artist new to the AFA Art Collection?
  • If the artist is already included in the AFA Art Collection, does this artwork address a chronological, curatorial, or gap in medium within the Collection? 

Shortlisted Artworks

Edmonton and Calgary Drop Off Depots

  • Artists and/or their galleries are responsible for bringing any artworks selected for in-person viewing to a depot location in Edmonton or Calgary at their own expense. Depot dates and locations are finalized after Stage 1 is complete.
  • If your artwork is selected for Stage 2 and you are not able to meet the depot requirements in either of these locations, you can arrange to send the artwork/transport the artwork directly to the AFA at your own expense.
  • Submissions may need to be withdrawn if the artworks are on loan and cannot be removed from exhibition and/or are otherwise unavailable for in-person viewing.
  • If the artworks are not accepted for purchase by the AFA and you shipped the artworks directly to the AFA, the AFA will pay to return the artworks to the same location they were shipped from. 

Conservation Review

Artworks shortlisted for in‑person review are assessed for conservation and any condition issues before being presented to the expert panel adjudicators.

All artworks must be clean and in good overall condition. Any artwork found to be in poor physical condition or not meeting the eligibility criteria will be removed from further consideration and the artist notified.

Poor physical condition can include, but is not limited to, artworks with the following concerns:

  • flaking or chipped paint, glaze, or other materials
  • curling, faded, ripped or otherwise damaged artworks
  • artworks with surface scratches or abrasions
  • artworks containing unstable materials that are not archival quality or are known to deteriorate over time
  • artworks that are soiled and require surface cleaning
  • artworks with warped or unstable stretchers
When will I hear?

It is our aim that artists will be notified within three months of the application deadline of the outcome of the first-stage adjudication (shortlisted for stage 2 adjudication or unsuccessful for stage 2 adjudication).

Regardless, all applicants will be notified in writing of the result of their applications (whether successful or unsuccessful) within six to eight months of the application deadline.

Conditions

Exhibition requirements for shortlisted artworks

If artworks shortlisted for the second stage adjudication are booked for an upcoming exhibition, please contact us and let us know as soon as possible. 

An exhibition loan, according to the AFA's loan request deadlines, will need to be arranged if the work is purchased by the AFA.

Reporting

Art Acquisition by Application does not require a final report. 

Before an artwork is purchased, the artist/copyright owner of the artwork(s) must complete, sign and upload/send the AFA the following items:

  • A signed copy of the AFA’s “Reproduction/Exhibition Agreement” for each of the artworks to be acquired.
  • A digitally signed PDF “Acquisition Data Sheet” for each of the artworks.
  • An artist biography (500 words or less) to be posted on the AFA Art Collection’s website.
  • A detailed invoice including the following information:
    • payees’ legal names or business name matching the one in GATE,
    • itemized description of the purchase, and
    • price of artwork(s) and correct mailing address and contact information for payment.
    • Please also include the AFA’s information as the purchaser and do not add GST (as the AFA is GST-exempt).
  • the AFA will accept electronic signatures (e.g., Adobe e-signature) on the Acquisition Data Sheet.

Forms and templates for these documents will be provided to artists that have artworks being considered for purchase by the AFA.

Should you wish to receive payment through direct deposit, please use the Direct Deposit form:

Helpful resources

The holdings of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts Collection can be viewed online at the Alberta Foundation for the Arts Virtual Museum.

We gather general comments about the applications and share them on the Adjudication page. The expert panel does not record specific comments about individual applications.

Resources for using the GATE Front Office system:

The AFA recognizes many artists encounter barriers to application and reporting procedures.

Deadline information

Community Support Organizations Operating Funding

Grant subtitle
Annual funding for not-for-profit community organizations that provide arts programs and services.
Select staff contact
Arts Development Consultant - Sector Support
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply Now
Recipient type
Organization
Art discipline
Film & video arts
Literary arts
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Community Support Organizations Operating Funding
Facebook description
Annual funding for not-for-profit community organizations that provide arts programs and services.
Twitter title
Community Support Organizations Operating Funding
Twitter description
Annual funding for not-for-profit community organizations that provide arts programs and services.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This grant provides annual funding to eligible not-for-profit community organizations that provide arts programs and services to communities, including those with limited arts opportunities.

Who can apply

To be eligible for Community Support Organizations operating funding, you must:

  • have programming in artist support and development, artist training or public participation in the arts as your organization’s principal mandate as stated in its incorporation document

Your organization must:

  • be a not-for-profit organization
  • be registered and in good standing under the appropriate legislation and have been in operation in Alberta for at least two years
  • have at least 50% of the organization’s board members living in Alberta
  • demonstrate the ability to operate using good governance principles, effective administration practices,and a commitment to fiscal responsibility while maintaining its mandate
  • operate as a stand-alone arts organization at arms-length from municipalities, commercial enterprises, or organizations and institutions receiving annual operating funds from the Government of Alberta or its affiliates

Ineligible applicants

Organizations that are engaged primarily in competition-based activity are not eligible for AFA funding.

First-time applicants

If this is your organization’s first application for AFA Community Support Organizations operating funding, you must contact the AFA at least three months before the deadline for a preliminary eligibility assessment.

As a first-time applicant, your organization must provide approved financial statements that demonstrate the organization has positive net assets for the two annual fiscal periods immediately prior to application.

What does this funding support?

This funding is designed to support your organization’s operations, which are specific to your organization’s mandate, strategic and/or business plan and activities as described in your application and/or reporting.

AFA operating funding typically supports expenses such as:

  • administration
  • programming
  • salaries and fees
  • maintenance of equipment and fixed assets
  • promotion
  • other expenses as required to fulfill your organization’s mandate
How to apply

We only accept applications through the Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) Front Office online application system.

We must receive your online application through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so that the AFA receives notification of your submission before the deadline falls.

GATE Front Office username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE Front Office username and password. Requests must be received at least five business days prior to the application deadline.

Please complete the GATE Front Office Registration form. Return as an email attachment to registrationAFA@gov.ab.ca, quoting the funding opportunity or grant program to which you are applying.

GATE Front Office usernames and passwords will be sent to the email addresses provided on the registration form.

What to include in your application

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please download the GATE Front Office user guide.

GATE Front Office online formlets:

  • Contact List: Includes the primary contact for your application and signing authority for your organization
  • Applicant Contact Information: Includes street and mailing address
  • Organization Information: Includes the organization’s legal name, Alberta Registration number, incorporation date, and fiscal year-end
  • Organization Applicant Agreement: Includes the name and position of your legal signing authority
  • Current Board List: Includes names, titles, mailing addresses, contact information, and start dates for all current board members
  • Statement of Eligible Expenses: Using data from your most recent, board-approved financial statements, includes total expenses (eligible and ineligible), revenue, government grants, and membership information
  • Diligence Questionnaire: Ask questions about your programming, financial management, and stewardship

Attachments:                                                                                        

Attachments must be developed prior to application, using either original documents specific to your organization or preformatted AFA templates, and uploaded to your online GATE Front Office submission.

You’ll be required to complete and upload the following attachments:

  • Most recent, board-approved and signed annual financial statements, including Balance Sheet, Statement of Revenues and expenditures, and Statement of Cash Flows
  • Financial Statement Board Approval form, if required
  • Most recent proof of filing with Alberta Corporate Registry
  • List of planned activities for the coming year
  • Direct deposit form or void cheque; void cheques must include the full legal name and address of the organization​
How will my application be assessed?

Funding awarded through this opportunity is calculated for each organization through two components:

  • your organization’s eligible expenses
  • equitable distribution of available funds to all eligible applicants

Funding for Community Support Organizations is established by the AFA Board of Directors based upon the annual AFA Budget allocated by the Government of Alberta. Department staff evaluate applications according to eligibility criteria and prepare recommendations to the board. The AFA Board of Directors reviews all funding recommendations, and all decisions are final.

When will I hear?

Grant recommendations are made to the AFA board of directors. Successful recipients will be notified upon board approval, generally between four to six months from the application deadline.

Conditions

Your organization is only eligible to receive support from one AFA operating funding opportunity in any given year. Funding is intended for the activities planned for your organization’s next fiscal year, based on information provided in your funding application.

Ineligible expenses for operating funding include, but are not limited to:

  • alcohol
  • amortization
  • GST expenses
  • fundraising expenses
  • bad debt and other paper losses
  • capital expenses
  • other non-cash or in-kind expenditures

The AFA or our authorized representative may examine your financial and other records to ensure funding was used for its intended purpose:

  • funding recipients must return unused portions of their grant to the AFA
  • we may require your organization to return funds if reporting requirements are not met
  • if you do not meet reporting requirements, your organization may be ineligible for further funding from the AFA for a period of three years from the time the delinquency is resolved

The AFA Fair Notice Policy applies to this funding opportunity:

  • we may cancel, suspend, reduce or demand repayment of your grant in circumstances where we are concerned with the viability of your organization

Funding acknowledgement 

Your organization must credit the AFA for financial support in any publicity prepared in relation to your organization’s activities, including electronic, print or visual material. 

  • if your organization fails to satisfy AFA recognition requirements, it may be subject to a 10% funding reduction in subsequent payments
  • subsequent infractions may result in ineligibility to apply for AFA funding opportunities

Download versions of the AFA logo and guidelines for usage.

Reporting

You are required to complete and submit a satisfactory final report in GATE Front Office that demonstrates that funding awarded for the previous fiscal year was spent on the activities described in the application.

Your final report is due March 1.

We must receive your online report through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until 11:59 p.m. on the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so we receive notification of your submission before the deadline falls.

Your organization’s final report must include:

GATE Front Office online formlets:

  • Statistical Report: Aligned with your organization’s most recent signed, board-approved financial statements and fiscal year end

Attachments:

  • Your organization’s most recent financial statements with Balance Sheet, Statement of Revenue and Expenditures, and Statement of Cash Flows; if your AFA grant was:
    • $25,000 or less, you must include at minimum a financial statement approved and signed by two board members plus your treasurer
    • $25,001 to $50,000, you must include at minimum a Notice to Reader financial statement provided by an independent, professionally designated accountant
    • $50,001 to $100,000, you must include at minimum a Review Engagement financial statement provided by an independent, professionally designated accountant
    • $100,001 or higher, you must include a full Audited financial statement provided by an independent, professional designated accountant
  • Copies of promotional and publicity materials from the previous year, showing compliance with AFA recognition requirements (scanned into one PDF file of no more than 4 MB)
Helpful resources

Visit the Help and Resources section of our website to:

  • download the new Front Office User Guide
  • find additional resources for organizations

You may wish to download the following resources to include as attachments with your application or final report.

For payment, you must attach a completed Direct deposit form or void cheque as part of your application:

  • Direct deposit form
  • please note that void cheques must include the legal name and address of the organization
Deadline information

Queen's Platinum Jubilee Scholarship for Visual Arts

Grant subtitle
This scholarship of $7,000 is awarded annually to a young Albertan visual artist.
Select staff contact
Arts Development Consultant - Visual Arts and New Media
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply Now
Recipient type
Individual
Art discipline
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Queen's Platinum Jubilee Scholarship for Visual Arts
Facebook description
This scholarship of $7,000 is awarded annually to a young Albertan visual artist.
Twitter title
Queen's Platinum Jubilee Scholarship for Visual Arts
Twitter description
This scholarship of $7,000 is awarded annually to a young Albertan visual artist.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

One scholarship of $7,000 will be awarded annually by the Government of Alberta to a young Albertan visual artist who shows extraordinary talent and potential and who demonstrates clear educational or training goals.

Who can apply
  1. To be eligible for scholarship funding you must be a resident of Alberta. This means you:
    • are legally entitled to be or remain in Canada
    • have had your primary residence in Alberta for one full year before applying
    • ordinarily live in Alberta for at least six months each year with the exception of attending a formal program of study
  2. You must be 25 years or younger as of the application deadline.
  3. You must be enrolled in an eligible visual arts training program.
What does this funding support?

Eligible training programs

You must be enrolled in an eligible training program to receive this scholarship.

Eligible visual arts programs that will be accepted for assessment of educational or training merit are the following:

  • any level of undergraduate studies with a minor or major in visual arts
  • a recognized program or appropriate mentorship, workshop, master class, or course with a focus on visual arts

Graduate programs or their equivalents are ineligible for consideration.

Eligible genres

For the purposes of this scholarship program, eligible visual arts works that will be accepted for assessment of artistic merit include, but are not limited to:

  • drawing
  • painting
  • sculpture
  • printmaking
  • works in clay, glass, wood, metal, fibre, or any combination of these materials
How to apply

We only accept applications through Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) Front Office online application system.

We must receive your online application through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so that we receive notification of your submission before the deadline falls.

Please note:

  • applicants may submit only one application to the AFA each deadline across all disciplines
  • the AFA does not accept incomplete applications

We do not accept separate applications for the same project.

GATE Front Office username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE Front Office username and password. Email us at registrationafa@gov.ab.ca to obtain your login information at least five business days prior to the application deadline.

Please include:

  1. your legal name
  2. the funding opportunity to which you are applying
  3. your email address

Your user name and password will be sent to the email address provided.

Application requirements for minors

If an applicant is under the age of 18 years at the time of application, a parent or legal guardian must e-sign the Applicant Agreement in GATE Front Office as the designate for the scholarship.

As the designate, you are responsible for:

  • the completeness and accuracy of the application in full
  • receipt and use of funding
  • serving as contact person for any inquiries relating to the funding

What to include in your application

Your application will include online forms to complete and attachments you must upload to your application.

Please note that applicants may be asked for additional information to determine eligibility or any other program requirements.

GATE Front Office online forms

  1. Applicant information: Legal name and confirmation of your status (minor/Albertan).
  2. Contact information for the applicant or their designate.
  3. Address: street and mailing address for the applicant.
  4. Project description: a brief project description (20 words), that includes the name of the educational program, and start and end dates of the training program.
  5. Applicant Agreement: this must be e-signed by the applicant or designate.

Attachments

The GATE Front Office attachment section indicates that not all attachments are required for submission. This is because they are only required for certain types of project or scholarship applications.

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all attachments listed below are submitted with the application.

Please submit the following attachments:

  1. A letter by the applicant of no more than two pages in length that:
    • introduces the applicant and outlines their previous experience in the visual arts
    • outlines the applicant's interest in the visual arts
    • describes how the applicant will use the scholarship to develop their visual arts practice should the application be successful
    • introduces the applicant's visual arts submission
  2. A resume or curriculum vitae of no more than two pages in length that focuses on the applicant's artistic activity.
  3. A detailed description of the applicant's chosen visual arts educational or training program(s). Please note:
    • applicants who have been accepted into a specific course must provide proof of acceptance and a detailed description and schedule for the training program or course of study
      -OR-
    • applicants who have not already been accepted into a course must submit a detailed description and schedule for the preferred choice, with two alternate program choices, including detailed descriptions and schedules for each choice
  4. A scanned copy of one of the following to provide legal proof of age:
    • certificate of birth
    • driver’s license
    • passport
    • certificate of Canadian citizenship
  5. A current and signed letter of reference, preferably from one of the following:
    • a high school, college or university instructor
    • a professionally produced or presented visual artist
    • another professional working in the visual arts 
  6. A one-page numbered inventory of all images submitted including title, medium, size, and year of execution, and in chronological order from the oldest to most recent work.
  7. A set of no more than 10 digital images of the applicant's work. Please note:
    • your file must be in PDF format and no larger than 4 MB in size
    • refer to the Helpful Resources section for instructions on how to prepare your images for upload
    • one media file sample is also permitted when applicable to your application

See "Format" below for submission guidelines

Format

Wherever possible, support material should be uploaded as an attachment into GATE Front Office (up to 4 MB).

For files too large to include as attachments in GATE Front Office, they may be submitted via email to vaAFA@gov.ab.ca as attachments or downloadable links:

  • please format your subject line: <your first initial, last name and project number>, e.g. "H.Lee VIPG-56-172631" 
  • please ensure link contains downloadable files (MP3 or MP4 preferred)

Alternatively, please mail a hard copy CD or USB to 10708 – 105 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0A1:

  • please include your first initial, last name and project number on the CD or USB
  • support material must be submitted or postmarked no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date
  • if you require return of hard copy materials, please also include a self-addressed stamped envelope
How will my application be assessed?

Staff convene an expert panel to consider all eligible scholarship applications submitted to each deadline. The expert panel assesses the merit of each application both on its own terms and in relation to all other applications received for a given deadline.

Assessment of a scholarship application is based on the following general criteria:

  • the applicant's artistic ability based on the artistic merit of the visual arts submission
  • the merit and appropriateness of the proposed program(s) in the context of the applicant's visual arts goals and interests
  • the impact of the proposed program(s) on the artistic development of the applicant
  • the applicant's achievements and experience in the visual arts and the visual arts community to date

Funding is not assured for any application.

Learn more about expert panels and how the AFA adjudicates funding requests for all programs.

When will I hear?

Successful recipients will be notified upon approval, generally between four to six months from the application deadline.

All applicants, successful and unsuccessful, will be notified of the outcome. No expert panel comments will be provided.

Conditions
  1. Only one $7,000 scholarship is awarded each year.
  2. The scholarship will only be granted if the successful applicant can prove enrollment in an eligible training program identified in the applicant's scholarship application.
  3. Failure to prove enrollment within 60 days of the award date may result in cancellation of the scholarship.
  4. The AFA, or our authorized representative, may examine a funding recipient's financial and other records to ensure that the funding is being, or was, used for its intended purpose. 
  5. If you have previously received an AFA grant, you must have met reporting requirements in order to be eligible to receive subsequent funding from the AFA.
Reporting

Within 60 days of the award date, you must provide confirmation of enrollment to the eligible training program identified in your application via email to vaAFA@gov.ab.ca. 

No other reporting requirements are associated with this scholarship. 

Helpful resources

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Scholarship for the Visual Arts was established by the Government of Alberta in 2002, and updated in 2022, to commemorate the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the throne and her service to the Commonwealth.

For assistance with this scholarship application, please call the AFA at 780-427-9968 during regular business hours or email the Arts Development Consultant listed below. Toll-free calls can be made by first dialing 310.0000.

Other useful information

The AFA recognizes many artists encounter barriers to application and reporting procedures.

Deadline information

Visual Arts and New Media Individual Project Funding

Grant subtitle
This funding provides up to $18,000 to support a specific visual arts or new media project.
Select staff contact
Arts Development Consultant - Visual Arts and New Media
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply Now
Recipient type
Individual
Art discipline
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Visual Arts and New Media
Facebook description
This funding provides up to $18,000 to support a specific visual arts or new media project.
Twitter title
Visual Arts and New Media
Twitter description
This funding provides up to $18,000 to support a specific visual arts or new media project.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This funding provides up to $18,000 to support development of individual Alberta artists, arts administrators, or an ensemble of artists by providing funding for a specific visual arts or new media project.

Who can apply

Individual eligibility criteria

The AFA celebrates and supports diversity and is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible programs for all, free of barriers and discrimination. We recognize the unique contributions all artists make towards our community, and encourage applicants representing diverse communities, including Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, women, people with disabilities, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

To be eligible for individual project funding, you must be a resident of Alberta. This means you:

  • are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Person with an open work or study permit from inside Canada
  • have had your primary residence in Alberta for at least one full year before applying
  • ordinarily live in Alberta for a least six months of each year with the exception of attending a formal program of study

You must be in good standing with the AFA with no open or outstanding projects or reporting to apply. Previous grant recipients must ensure all final reporting has been approved by the AFA before new applications are accepted.

Applicants, including ensembles or collectives, must not be incorporated under either provincial or federal legislation.

Collaborating artists, ensembles, and collectives

Collaborating artists, ensembles, and collectives are eligible to apply to this program if all project co-owners meet the individual eligibility criteria as defined above. 

The AFA defines project co-owners as:

  •  those who share in the ownership or copyright of the created work
  • those who have a significant financial stake in the project

For the purposes of this funding opportunity, in addition to the lead applicant, co-owners include, but may not be limited to, the following:

  •  visual artists
  • curators
  • directors (time-based or performative media)
  • composers or writers (audio or text-based work)

Unless identified as retaining ownership or copyright of the work, contributors who are not normally considered co-owners include, but may not be limited to, the following:

  •  studio assistants
  • technicians
  • Mentors, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers

Project co-owners must select a lead applicant to submit the application. The lead applicant must ensure all co-owners are listed in the application and is responsible for submitting the complete application before the program deadline.

If the project is approved for funding, the lead applicant is also responsible for receiving and managing any funds and completing any related reporting for the project.

If you are unsure whether an artist should be listed as a co-owner in your application, please contact your Arts Development Consultant as listed below.

 

What does this funding support?

Please note, AFA funding is not assured for any project.

Eligible genres

For the purposes of this funding opportunity, eligible visual arts and new media projects include:

  • drawing
  • painting
  • sculpture
  • printmaking
  • fibre art
  • ceramics
  • photography
  • fine craft
  • mixed media
  • installation art
  • public art
  • media and/or computer-assisted art

Types of projects

Through this opportunity, you may apply for project funding to support artistic activities in:

  • art production
  • marketing
  • research
  • training and career development

Art production includes the development, creation, and production of any visual arts work. Projects should be confined to a distinct phase of a work, such as:

  • artistic creation
  • exhibition
  • crating and shipping
  • creative residencies
  • curation

Alberta individual artists that have been contracted by commissioners to create a specific work are eligible to apply for project support through this funding opportunity.

Marketing includes a program of activity for a specific period that promotes, advertises or disseminates work created by Alberta visual artists, and/or develops audiences for the artist's work.

Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:

  • attending an exhibition opening, visual arts festival, workshop or award presentation by invitation
  • projects that promote and market media art

Research includes a program of activity for a specific period of time that supports or results in the development of a visual arts/new media project.

Training and career development includes enrollment in a course or program of study designed to develop an artist's training in visual arts and new media, and/or arts  administration.

Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:

  • post-secondary study
  • workshops
  • master classes
  • retreats
  • mentorship programs

Eligible expenses

You can receive up to $18,000 to support your project. You may apply for up to 100% of eligible expenses that are directly related to carrying out your proposed project.

These expenses may include, but are not limited to:

  • contracted artist and technician fees
  • commission fees
  • production, including materials and supplies that are appropriate for the development of the project
  • promotion and publicity
  • transportation and accommodation
  • tuition or training fees
  • royalties
  • administration and contract fees
  • basic living/subsistence expenses (housing, local transportation, food, childcare, dependent care) up to $3,000/month
  • other expenses and supplies considered by the AFA to be reasonable and necessary

Ineligible projects

Additional expenses and activities that are ineligible for AFA project funding include:

  • expenses for capital purchases, such as buildings or property, or for capital development, studio construction or renovations
  • expenses for equipment such as computers, software, cameras, lighting and audio equipment that can otherwise be rented and/or have a use beyond the life of your project
  • recreational training projects
  • thesis exhibitions, graduate films and other specific component activities undertaken as part of a course of study
  • applied arts such as gaming, architecture, interior design, commercial photography, graphic arts and design and/or fashion design
  • contracts for ongoing activities or artists pursuing projects similar in scope to usual activities with the commissioner
  • expenses already incurred prior to the application submission, including grant writer fees
How to apply

We only accept applications through the Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) Front Office online application system. We must receive your online application through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so that we receive notification of your submission before the deadline falls. 

  • applicants may submit only one application to the AFA each deadline across all disciplines
  • the AFA does not accept incomplete applications
  • applications must be received prior to the commencement of the project
  • projects involving more than one artist must be submitted by one individual on behalf of the ensemble or group
    • we do not accept separate applications for the same project

GATE Front Office username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE Front Office username and password. Email us at registrationafa@gov.ab.ca to get your login information at least five business days prior to the application deadline.

Please include:

  1. your legal name
  2. the funding opportunity to which you are applying
  3. your email address

Your username and password will be sent to the email address provided.

What to include in your application

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please download the GATE Front Office user guide.

GATE Front Office online formlets:

  • applicant information: Legal name and confirmation of your status (minor/Albertan)
  • if you are under the age of 18 years at the time of application, a parent or legal guardian must e-sign the Applicant Agreement as the designate for the funding, and be responsible for:
    • the completeness and accuracy of the application in full
    • receipt and use of funding
    • reporting on the use of funds
    • serving as contact person for any inquiries relating to the funding
  • contact information for primary applicant
    • ensembles must designate one contact person for all requirements of the grant as the primary applicant
    • this designated individual must e-sign the Applicant Agreement
  • address: Street and mailing address for the primary applicant
  • general information: Confirmation of the application category (art production, marketing, research, or training/career development) and applicant status (individual/ensemble)
  • project description: A brief project description (20 words) and project start and end dates
  • project co-owners: A listing of the project co-owners involved in the project, their position or role, and confirmation of Alberta Residence
  • individual applicant agreement: A declaration of agreement with the statement of conditions e-signed by the primary applicant or designate
  • project expenses: A listing of project expenditures in Canadian dollars
  • project revenue: A listing of non-AFA revenues in Canadian dollars
    • the difference between expenditures and revenues will comprise the grant request to the AFA with the funding not exceeding $18,000

Attachments:

The GATE Front Office attachment section indicates that not all attachments are required for submission. This is because they are only required for certain types of projects (e.g. marketing plan for a marketing project). It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all attachments noted in the guidelines are submitted with their application according to project type.

Please submit the following attachments for all types of applications:

  • an artistic resume of no more than four pages that includes a list of exhibitions and other relevant artistic history
    • resumes of all project co-owners involved in the project
  • Detailed project description, including an outline of the objectives, planned activities, timelines, and expected results and impact on the applicant's artistic development
    • in keeping with oral traditions, Indigenous project descriptions are welcome as oral submissions no longer than 3 minutes in length
    • for more information on how to submit oral project descriptions, contact the Arts Development Consultant for this program, prior to the application deadline, at the contact information below.
  • one complete file containing no more than 10 images of completed work done within the last five years
    • your file must be in PDF format and no larger than 4 MB in size
    • refer to the Helpful Resources section for instructions on how to prepare your images for upload
  • one media file sample is also permitted when applicable to your application (see format requirements below)

Please also submit the following attachments, as applicable:

  • commission applicants are encouraged to submit a completed and signed contract with the commissioner and a plan for the exhibition, presentation, display, publication, screening or performance of the commissioned work
  • applicants who have been accepted into a specific course must provide proof of acceptance and a detailed description, schedule and budget for the training program or course of study
  • applicants who have not already been accepted into a course must submit a detailed description, schedule and budget for the preferred choice
    • two alternate program choices should be submitted, with detailed descriptions, schedules and budgets for each choice
  • official invitations, confirmations or itineraries
  • marketing plan
  • letter of reference
  • resumes for other project co-owners
  • additional support materials that may assist in the assessment process
    • all additional support material should be scanned into a single file and attached to the online application

Applicants may be asked for additional information.

Format

  • all video and audio files must be Windows compatible, MP3 and MP4 files are preferred
  • wherever possible, support material should be uploaded as an attachment into GATE (up to 4 MB)
  • for video and audio files too large to include as attachments in GATE, they may be submitted via email to vaAFA@gov.ab.ca as email attachments or downloadable links
    • please format your subject line: <your first initial, last name and project number>, eg. "H.Lee VIPG-56-172631"
    • please ensure link contains downloadable files (MP3 or MP4 preferred)
  • alternatively, please mail a hard copy CD or USB to 10708 – 105 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0A1
    • please include your first initial, last name and project number on the CD or USB
  • support material must be submitted or postmarked no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date
How will my application be assessed?

This funding is administered at the discretion of the AFA board on a project-by-project basis.

Staff convene an expert panel to consider all eligible grant applications submitted to each grant deadline. The expert panel assesses the merit of each application both on its own terms and in relation to all other applications received for a given deadline.

 Assessment of a project is based on the following general criteria:

  • the impact of the project on both the applicant and the artistic genre in Alberta
  • the artistic, educational or promotional merit of the project
  • the appropriateness of the project budget showing commitment from all partners as applicable
  • the ability of the applicant to carry out the proposed project

Assessment also takes into account the applicant's:

  • artistic and technical ability to carry out the proposed project
  • level of training, experience and expertise
  • performance and achievements to date
  • personal objectives

All expert panel recommendations are reviewed by the AFA board and all decisions are final. Funding is not assured for any project.

Learn more about expert panels and how the AFA adjudicates funding requests for all programs.

When will I hear?

Grant recommendations are made to the AFA board of directors. Successful recipients will be notified upon board approval, generally between four to six months from the application deadline.

We gather general comments about the applications and share them on the Adjudication page. The expert panel does not record specific comments about individual applications.

Conditions

Funding is intended for the purposes described in your application. By accepting funding, you agree to undertake the project as proposed in your original project description.

If you do not receive the full grant amount requested, you are still required to complete the project as proposed if you accept the grant:

  • you must return the grant funds if the project cannot be completed as proposed

If you require a change to your project including outcomes, location or an extension to your final report due date:

  • you must submit a request in writing for approval by the AFA
  • the request must be submitted prior to the change being made and/or before your project completion date
  • the AFA may consider a single extension per funding opportunity

Funding recipients are responsible for informing the AFA of how funds were spent and outcomes of the project:

  • you must return funds if reporting requirements are not met
  • you must return unused portions of funding to the AFA

Any funding recipient who does not provide a report prior to the date noted in the successful notification document, or does not fulfill any conditions associated with a grant or whose report is not approved will be made delinquent and ineligible for further funding from the AFA for a period of three years from the time the delinquency is resolved.

New applications will not be accepted until your previous project is completed and the final report is received and approved by the AFA.

Previous funding recipients must have met reporting requirements in order to be eligible to receive subsequent funding from the AFA.

The AFA, or our authorized representative, may examine a funding recipient's financial and other records to ensure that the funding is being, or was, used for its intended purpose. 

We require a complete and satisfactory final report submitted to GATE that demonstrates that funding was spent on the activities described in the application.

Funding acknowledgement

Whenever possible, you must acknowledge the AFA for financial support in any publicity prepared in relation to the project, including electronic, print, or visual material.

Download versions of the AFA logo and guidelines for usage.

 

Reporting

In your final report, you must complete the following GATE Front Office formlets:

  • Individual Project Evaluation with a completed project outcomes questionnaire
     
  • Project Expenses with a complete and accurate financial accounting for final project expenses in comparison to the original budget submission
  • Project Revenues with a complete and accurate financial accounting for all revenues received for the project

Include the following mandatory attachments as part of your final report:

  • One of the following samples of work produced, performed, or created from the following list
    • submit one file of 1-10 visual images representative of your completed project
    • submit one audio file representative of your completed project
      • files must be no longer than 5 minutes in length, in MP3 or AAC format, and no larger than 8 MB in size
    • upload a list of work produced into GATE Front Office and submit one video file representative of your completed project as an attachment or link to a downloadable file to vaAFA@gov.ab.ca
      • files must be no longer than 5 minutes in length, in MP4, AVI, MOV, MPEG, or WMV format
      • please see Format section (above in How to apply) for detailed submission instructions, including how to submit video files when appropriate to your project reporting
  • if your project was for marketing, include proof of touring costs (i.e. receipts or itinerary) or sample of promotional material in lieu of visual, audio, or video sample
  • if your project was for training or career development, include your tuition receipt in lieu of visual, audio, or video sample

When applicable, include:

  • Samples of promotional materials related to the project, such as social media or website screenshots, posters, and/or programs showing funding credit to the Alberta Foundation for the Arts where appropriate
  • Samples of reviews, interviews, publications, or other media in which the project was mentioned
  • Other support material, if applicable, such a travel itinerary, confirmation of attendance at an event, invoices for studio time, other production costs, etc.
Helpful resources

Visit the Help and Resources section of our website to:

  • download the new Front Office User Guide
  • read application tips for individual artists that will help you write a stronger grant application
  • find tips for developing digital images to attach to your grant application

Working on your project budget? Download budget examples for Visual Art and New Media individual project funding  to help guide you.

You may wish to add video support materials to your application. Make sure your materials meet AFA technical requirements:

Project grant recommendations are made by Expert Panels. Their comments can be useful tips to help you improve your application.

The AFA recognizes many artists encounter barriers to application and reporting procedures.

Deadline information

Arts Presenting Project Funding

Grant subtitle
Funding supporting the public presentation of professional artists by reimbursing a portion of fees.
Select staff contact
Arts Development Consultant - Film and Video
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply Now
Recipient type
Organization
Art discipline
All disciplines
Dance
Film & video arts
Indigenous arts
Literary arts
Music
Theatre
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Arts Presenting Project Funding
Facebook description
Funding supporting the public presentation of professional artists by reimbursing a portion of fees.
Twitter title
Arts Presenting Project Funding
Twitter description
Funding supporting the public presentation of professional artists by reimbursing a portion of fees.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This funding supports the public presentation of professional artists by reimbursing a portion of professional artists' fees for the preceding year. 

Who can apply

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be one of the following:

  • registered not-for-profit organizations
  • churches
  • library boards
  • Indian Bands as defined by the Indian Act R.S.C. 1985, C.I-5
  • Métis Settlements recognized under the Métis Settlements Act R.S.A. 2000, C.M14
  • organizations registered under the Agriculture Societies Act
  • organizations recognized under the Post-Secondary Institutions Act (by Faculty or Department)

Organizations must also:

  • be registered and in good standing in Alberta under the appropriate legislation for at least one year prior to the deadline
  • be in good standing with the AFA with no outstanding reporting requirements
  • have been in operation for at least one full year prior to the deadline
  • have at least 50 percent of the organization's board members, or ruling council, living in the community or region where the presentations are given
  • demonstrate adherence to good governance principles, effective administration practices and commitment to fiscal responsibility
  • demonstrate financial stability, in the judgment of the AFA, for at least one year
  • operate as a stand-alone organization at arm’s length from municipalities, commercial enterprises or schools
  • be the primary organizer and producer of the event by directly paying professional artists and/or artist-affiliated organizations (for example: artist managers or booking agents) for professional artist fees
  • have a policy of presenting at least three different touring professional artists during the twelve-month period from November 15 to November 14, immediately prior to the grant deadline
    • organizations based in rural areas with a population of less than 3,000 may apply even if fewer than three artists are presented

Partnerships between not-for-profit organizations based in the same region must apply through one primary organization. Organizations with branches or separate offices in the same municipality may submit only one application.

Post-secondary institutions may submit one application per department or faculty.

Ineligible applicants

The following organizations are ineligible for this funding:

  • municipalities
  • commercial enterprises
  • schools
  • groups that are not arm’s length from municipalities, commercial enterprises, or schools
  • organizations that are eligible for operating funding under another AFA grant stream
  • organizations that engage primarily in competition-based activity

Event partners and sponsors may not apply on behalf of the event producer, commercial organizations or other for-profit entities.

What does this funding support?

Eligible events

Events that are eligible for this funding are:

  • events that present professional touring artists who regularly tour outside their place of residence in the following arts disciplines:
    • performing arts includes music, dance, theatre, circus arts and spoken word
    • visual and new media arts includes drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, clay, glass, wood, metal, fibre and new media
    • film and video arts
    • literary arts includes fiction, literary non-fiction, poetry, screenwriting and playwriting
  • events where arts presentations, performances, readings, or exhibitions are the primary reason for the event
  • events that are available to the public through season tickets, or casual sales or free admission
  • Events that occur between November 15 and November 14, immediately prior to the grant deadline
  • original live streaming events, occurring after March 12, 2020, presented through online channels or resources

Eligible artists

Grants awarded through this grant stream are based on eligible fees paid to professional artists (excluding GST). Professional artists are defined as artists that:

  • are compensated at an industry standard for their art (example: union or nationally recognized rate)
  • fulfill at least 2 of the following:
    • are recognized by the public and by their peers for their art, and have received industry recognition
    • are actively marketing their work to professional booking agents, venues and galleries
    • present, perform and/or exhibit their art for compensation on a regular basis
    • have specialized training in their field
    • have membership to a nationally or provincially recognized industry or other professional organization (e.g. ACTRA, AFM, Canadian Actors Equity Association, CARFAC, IMAA, WGC, Writers Union of Canada, etc.)
    • has received royalties or residual payments on their copyrighted works

Eligible expenses

Only fees paid directly by the applicant to the artist are eligible for consideration under this grant stream. Eligible expenses include:

  • presentation fees
  • performance fees
  • public reading fees
  • artist and curator fees for exhibition
  • screening fees
  • lectures and panel discussions by the creator, director, producer, or representative of film and video works (film festivals only)
  • transportation and accommodation for the above activities

An organization may claim artist fees for up to three presentations by the same artist or artistic act presented during the eligible grant period.

Ineligible projects

Ineligible events and activities include:

  • activities already funded through other Government of Alberta programs
  • curriculum based activities
  • pre-recorded events for distribution through online channels or resources
  • repeat presentation of previous live streamed events
  • activities related to conferences or workshops
  • competitive performances
  • entertainment or arts activity presented as part of primarily social events, including but not limited to:
    • fundraisers
    • rodeos
    • stampedes
    • grandstand performances
    • trade fairs
    • parades
    • meals
    • conventions
    • community dances
    • student union cabarets
  • activities by board members, full-time faculty, sessionals, or staff at post-secondary institutions

Ineligible expenses

For the purposes of this funding opportunity, the following fees are ineligible for project support:

  • for staff, board members, resident acts or house bands
  • for those practicing applied arts, including but not limited to:
    • culinary arts
    • architecture
    • interior design
    • graphic arts
    • commercial photography
    • gaming
    • fashion design
  • for commercial variety acts, including but not limited to:
    • face painting
    • balloon entertainers
    • fireworks/pyrotechnics
    • hypnotism
How to apply

We only accept applications through the Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) Front Office online application system.

We must receive your online application through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so that we receive notification of your submission before the deadline falls. Applications received after 11:59 p.m. of the deadline date will be considered at the next deadline.

  • applicants may submit only one application to the AFA each deadline
  • the AFA does not accept incomplete applications
  • projects involving more than one organization must be submitted by the primary applicant organization; separate organization applications will not be accepted for the same project

GATE Front Office username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE Front Office username and password. Requests must be received at least five business days prior to the application deadline.

Please complete the GATE Front Office Registration form and email it as an attachment to registrationAFA@gov.ab.ca.

GATE Front Office usernames and passwords will be sent to the email addresses provide on the registration form.

What to include in your application

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please download the GATE Front Office user guide.

GATE Front Office online forms

  • applicant contact information, including street and mailing address
  • contact list, including primary and secondary contact persons and signing authority designate for the application
  • the organization’s registration details, including organization’s registered name, Alberta Registration number and incorporation date
  • an applicant agreement with e-signature of signing authority designate for the organization
  • a completed Statistical Report
  • a listing of all current board members include the names, positions, addresses, telephone numbers, fax numbers, and e-mail addresses
  • total number of events, artists, artist fees paid from Arts Presenting worksheet

Attachments

The GATE Front Office attachment section indicates that not all attachments are required for submission. This is because they are only required for certain types of projects (e.g. marketing plan for a marketing project). It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all attachments noted in the guidelines are submitted with their application.

You’ll be required to complete and upload the following attachments:

  • Arts Presenting calculation worksheet
  • copies of all promotional materials related to the event, such as posters and programs, demonstrating compliance with AFA funding acknowledgement conditions (see "Conditions" below)
    • do not submit press clippings or videos
  • the organization's most recent annual financial statement with Balance Sheet, Statement of Revenues and Expenditures, and Statement of Cash Flows
  • a confirmation of filing of the organization's most recent annual return from Alberta Corporate Registry
  • for presentations that include public screening of film and video media, please attach written evidence of compliance with film classification regulations as outlined in the Film and Video Classification Act

Applicants may be asked for additional information.

Format

  • all video and audio files must be Windows compatible
  • wherever possible, support material should be uploaded as an attachment into GATE Front Office (up to 4 MB)
  • if your support material is too large to upload, please mail a hard copy to 10708 – 105 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0A1
    • please include your first name, last name and project number
    • support material sent by mail must be postmarked no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date
How will my application be assessed?

Arts Presenting funding and funding maximums are established annually by the AFA board of Directors. The annual AFA budget is based upon funds allocated in the annual Government of Alberta budget. 

This grant is calculated by formula.

  • up to 65% of fees paid to Alberta artists. Ensemble members may not be separated out and residency is determined by majority of ensemble members
  • up to 50% of fees paid to Canadian artists from the rest of Canada
  • up to 50% of fees paid to International artists to a maximum of 1/3 of the eligible Canadian/Alberta subsidy. International children's artists are exempt from the restriction. Children's artists are those who primarily play to audiences where over 50% of the audience is under the age of 16 years

Staff evaluate applications according to the program grant stream criteria and prepare recommendations to the AFA board.

 Available funds are equitably distributed to all eligible applicants according to a formula.

 Funding is not assured for any project. All decisions are final.

When will I hear?

Grant recommendations are made to the AFA board of directors. Successful recipients will be notified upon board approval, generally between four to six months from the application deadline.

Conditions

The AFA will retain all materials submitted with funding applications. The AFA or our authorized representative may examine a funding recipient's financial and other records to ensure that all claimed expenses were undertaken as outlined in the funding application. 

The AFA may cancel, suspend, reduce or demand repayment of funding in circumstances where the AFA is concerned with the viability of an organization as per the AFA Fair Notice policy.

The AFA does not provide advances for any grant.

Funding acknowledgement

Whenever possible, you must acknowledge the AFA for financial support in any publicity prepared in relation to the project, including electronic, print or visual material.

Download versions of the AFA logo and guidelines for usage.

A minimum reduction of 10% will be applied to the subsequent grant of any organization that does not satisfy the AFA recognition requirements.

Reporting

Reporting is not required for Arts Presenting project funding.

Helpful resources

Visit the Help and Resources section of our website to:

  • download the new Front Office User Guide
  • find additional resources for organizations

You may wish to download the following resources to include as attachments with your application:

Please note that the Arts Presenting Artist fees and financial statement confirmation form is no longer required to complete your grant application. 

Should your organization wish to receive payment through direct deposit, please use the Direct Deposit form:

 

Deadline information

ISCP Residency in New York Funding

Grant subtitle
This funding supports one three-month residency at the International Studio & Curatorial Program.
Select staff contact
Arts Development Consultant - Visual Arts and New Media
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply Now
Recipient type
Individual
Art discipline
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
ISCP Residency in New York Funding
Facebook description
This funding supports one three-month residency at the International Studio & Curatorial Program.
Twitter title
ISCP Residency in New York Funding
Twitter description
This funding supports one three-month residency at the International Studio & Curatorial Program.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This funding supports the development of individual Alberta visual and new media artists and curators by providing up to $18,000 for one three-month residency (April 1 - June 30) per year at the International Studio & Curatorial Program in Brooklyn, New York.

This funding opportunity is a subsection of our Visual Arts and New Media Individual Project funding opportunity.

Who can apply

Individual eligibility criteria

The AFA celebrates and supports diversity and is committed to creating equitable, inclusive, and accessible programs for all, free of barriers and discrimination. We recognize the unique contributions all artists make towards our community, and encourage applicants representing diverse communities, including Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, women, people with disabilities, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

To be eligible for individual project funding, you must be a resident of Alberta. This means you:

  • are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Person with an open work or study permit from inside Canada
  • have had your primary residence in Alberta for at least one full year before applying
  • ordinarily live in Alberta for a least six months of each year with the exception of attending a formal program of study

You must be in good standing with the AFA with no open or outstanding projects or reporting requirement to apply.

Applicants can only receive this grant once during their career.

Collaborating artists, ensembles, and collectives

Collaborating artists, ensembles, and collectives are eligible to apply to this program if all project co-owners meet the individual eligibility criteria as defined above. 

The AFA defines project co-owners as:

  •  those who share in the ownership or copyright of the created work
  • those who have a significant financial stake in the project

For the purposes of this funding opportunity, in addition to the lead applicant, co-owners include, but may not be limited to, the following:

  •  visual artists
  • curators
  • directors (time-based or performative media)
  • composers or writers (audio or text-based work)

Unless identified as retaining ownership or copyright of the work, contributors who are not normally considered co-owners include, but may not be limited to, the following:

  •  studio assistants
  • technicians
  • Mentors, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers

Project co-owners must select a lead applicant to submit the application. The lead applicant must ensure all co-owners are listed in the application and is responsible for submitting the complete application before the program deadline.

If the project is approved for funding, the lead applicant is also responsible for receiving and managing any funds and completing any related reporting for the project.

If you are unsure whether an artist should be listed as a co-owner in your application, please contact your Arts Development Consultant as listed below.

What does this funding support?

Please note, AFA funding is not assured for any project.

Eligible genres

For the purposes of this funding opportunity, eligible visual arts and new media may include:

  • drawing
  • painting
  • sculpture
  • printmaking
  • fibre art
  • ceramics
  • photography
  • fine craft
  • mixed media
  • installation art
  • public art
  • media and/or computer assisted art

Types of projects

Through this opportunity, you may apply for project funding to support artistic activities in:

  • art production
  • curatorial production

Art production includes the development, creation, and production of any visual arts work.

Curatorial includes research activities that support or result in the development of a visual arts or new media project.

Eligible expenses

You can receive up to $18,000 to support your residency. You may apply for up to 100% of eligible expenses that are directly related to carrying out your residency.

These expenses may include, but are not limited to:

  • residency costs
  • international transportation
  • local transportation and accommodation
  • food, sundries and per diems
  • other expenses and supplies considered by the AFA to be reasonable and necessary

Ineligible expenses

Additional expenses and activities that are ineligible for AFA project funding include:

  • expenses for equipment such as computers, software, cameras, lighting and audio equipment that can otherwise be rented and/or have a use beyond the life of your project
  • applied arts such as gaming, architecture, interior design, commercial photography, graphic arts and design and/or fashion design
  • expenses already incurred prior to the application submission, including grant writer fees
How to apply

We only accept applications through Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) online application system. We must receive your online application through GATE no later than 11:59 pm Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so that we receive notification of your submission before the deadline falls.

  • applicants may submit only one application to the AFA for this deadline
    • applicants who choose to submit for the ISCP Residency are not allowed to submit another project grant submission at the same time
  • the AFA does not accept incomplete applications
  • applications must be submitted prior to the commencement of the project

GATE username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE username and password. Email us at registrationafa@gov.ab.ca to get your GATE login informationat least five business days prior to the application deadline.

Please include:

  1. your legal name
  2. the funding opportunity to which you are applying
  3. your email addressa

Your GATE user name and password will be sent to the email address provided.

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please download the GATE user guide for this funding opportunity.

GATE online formlets

  • applicant information: legal name and confirmation of your status (minor/Albertan)
  • if you are under the age of 18 years at the time of application, a parent or legal guardian must e-sign the Applicant Agreement as the designate for the funding, and be responsible for:
    • the completeness and accuracy of the application in full
    • receipt and use of funding
    • reporting on the use of funds
    • serving as contact person for any inquiries relating to the funding
  • contact information for primary applicant
  • address: street and mailing address for the primary applicant
  • general information: Confirmation of the application category as “Art Production”
  • project description: a brief project description (20 words) titled “ISCP New York Residency - (Last Name)” and project start and end dates of April 1 and June 30 for the upcoming year
  • project co-owners: A listing of the project co-owners involved in the project, their position or role, and confirmation of Alberta Residence
  • individual applicant agreement: A declaration of agreement with the statement of conditions e-signed by the primary applicant or designate
  • project budget: A project budget detailing expenditures and non-AFA revenues in Canadian dollars The difference between expenditures and revenues will comprise the grant request to the AFA and cannot exceed $18,000.
  • project expenses: A listing of project expenditures in Canadian dollars
  • project revenue: A listing of non-AFA revenues in Canadian dollars
    • the difference between expenditures and revenues will comprise the grant request to the AFA with the funding not exceeding $18,000

Attachments

The GATE attachment section indicates that not all attachments are required for submission. This is because they are only required for certain types of projects (e.g. marketing plan for a marketing project). It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all attachments noted in the guidelines are submitted with their application.

Please submit the following attachments:

  • an artistic resume of no more than four pages that includes a list of exhibitions and other relevant artistic history
    • resumes of all project co-owners involved in the project
  • a detailed description of the project, including an outline of the objectives, planned activities, timelines, and expected results and impact on the applicant’s artistic development
    • in keeping with oral traditions, project descriptions are welcome as oral submissions no longer than 3 minutes in length
  • one complete file containing no more than 10 images of completed work done within the last five years
    • your file must be in PDF format and no larger than 4MB in size
    • refer to Helpful Resources section for instructions on how to prepare your images for upload
    • one media file sample is also permitted when applicable to your application (see Format requirements below)

Applicants may be asked for additional information.

Format

  • all video and audio files must be Windows compatible, MP3 and MP4 files are preferred
  • wherever possible, support material should be uploaded as an attachment into GATE (up to 4 MB)
  • for video and audio files too large to include as attachments in GATE, they may be submitted via email to vaAFA@gov.ab.ca as email attachments or downloadable links
    • please format your subject line: <your first initial, last name and project number> , eg. "H.Lee VIPG-56-172631"
    • please ensure link contains downloadable files (MP3 or MP4 preferred)
  • alternately, please mail a hard copy CD or USB to 10708 – 105 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0A1
    • please include your first initial, last name and project number on the CD or USB
  • support material must be submitted or postmarked no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date
How will my application be assessed?

This funding is administered at the discretion of the AFA board on a project-by-project basis.

Staff convene an expert panel to consider all eligible grant applications submitted to each grant deadline. The expert panel assesses the merit of each application both on its own terms and in relation to all other applications received for a given deadline.

 Assessment of a project is based on the following general criteria:

  • the impact of the project on both the applicant and the artistic genre in Alberta
  • the artistic, educational or promotional merit of the project
  • the appropriateness of the project budget showing commitment from all partners as applicable
  • the ability of the applicant to carry out the proposed project

Assessment also takes into account the applicant's:

  • artistic and technical ability to carry out the proposed project
  • level of training, experience and expertise
  • performance and achievements to date
  • personal objectives

All expert panel recommendations are reviewed by the AFA board and all decisions are final. Funding is not assured for any project.

Learn more about expert panels and how the AFA adjudicates funding requests for all programs.

When will I hear?

Grant recommendations are made to the AFA board of directors. Successful recipients will be notified upon board approval, generally between four to six months from the application deadline.

We gather general comments about the applications and share them on the Adjudication page. The expert panel does not record specific comments about individual applications.

Conditions

Funding is intended for the purposes described in your application. By accepting funding, you agree to undertake the project as proposed in your original project description.

If you do not receive the full grant amount requested, you are still required to complete the project as proposed if you accept the grant:

  • you must return the grant funds if the project cannot be completed as proposed

If you require a change to your project including outcomes, location or an extension to your final report due date:

  • you must submit a request in writing for approval by the AFA
  • the request must be submitted prior to the change being made and/or before your final report is due
  • the AFA may consider a single extension per funding opportunity

Funding recipients are responsible for informing the AFA of how funds were spent and outcomes of the project:

  • you must return funds if reporting requirements are not met
  • you must return unused portions of funding to the AFA

New applications will not be accepted until your previous project is completed and the final report is received and approved by the AFA.

Any funding recipient who does not provide a report prior to the date noted in the successful notification document, does not fulfill any conditions associated with a grant, or whose report is not approved will be made delinquent and ineligible for further funding from the AFA for a period of three years from the time the delinquency is resolved.

The AFA, or our authorized representative, may examine a funding recipient's financial and other records to ensure that the funding is being, or was, used for its intended purpose. 

We require a complete and satisfactory final report submitted to GATE that demonstrates that funding was spent on the activities described in the application.

Funding acknowledgement

Whenever possible, you must acknowledge the AFA for financial support in any publicity prepared in relation to the project, including electronic, print, or visual material.

Download versions of the AFA logo and guidelines for usage.

 

Reporting

In your final report, please include:

  • a completed project outcomes questionnaire
  • a complete and accurate financial accounting for the project based on the original budget submission

And, when applicable:

  • copies of promotional materials related to the project, such as posters and programs showing funding credit to the Alberta Foundation for the Arts where appropriate
  • a copy of the work produced
    • still images must be uploaded in GATE as an attachment
    • all Visual Arts and New Media projects require images of the work created, produced, exhibited, or presented, as part of the final report
  • any reviews, publications, invitations and/or catalogues in which the project is mentioned
  • a travel itinerary, confirmation of attendance at an event, conference or course of study
Helpful resources

Visit the Help and Resources section of our website to:

  • download the new Front Office User Guide
  • read application tips for individual artists that will help you write a stronger grant application

The AFA recognizes many artists encounter barriers to application and reporting procedures.

Deadline information

Summer School Project Funding

Grant subtitle
This funding supports organizations in delivering residence-based art summer schools.
Select staff contact
Arts Development Consultant
Apply Now: Link to GATE
Apply Now
Recipient type
Organization
Art discipline
All disciplines
Dance
Film & video arts
Indigenous arts
Literary arts
Music
Theatre
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Summer School Project Funding
Facebook description
This funding supports organizations in delivering residence-based art summer schools.
Twitter title
Summer School Project Funding
Twitter description
This funding supports organizations in delivering residence-based art summer schools.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This funding supports organizations in delivering residence-based art summer schools that offer:

  • an arts intensive training experience in any discipline through technical skills workshops with professional artists and instructors
  • opportunities for young people from across the province to engage in the creative process
Who can apply

To be eligible for this funding, applicants must be:

  • registered not-for-profit organizations
  • registered and in good standing in Alberta under the appropriate legislation, for at least one year prior to the deadline
  • have been in operation for at least one full year prior to the deadline
  • have at least 50% of the organization’s board members, or ruling council, living in Alberta
  • demonstrate adherence to good governance principles, efficient administration practices and commitment to fiscal responsibility
  • demonstrate financial stability, in the judgment of the AFA, for at least one year
  • operate as a stand-alone organization at arm’s length from municipalities, commercial enterprises or schools
  • have the authority to provide residence-based programming for minors
  • have previous experience organizing, designing and operating residence-based art programming

Previous grant recipients must have met reporting requirements in order to be eligible to receive funding.

Two or more organizations that satisfy the eligibility criteria may apply to collaborate to operate a summer arts school program. A partnership project must be submitted through one primary organization. The primary organization must designate the main contact for all requirements of the grant.

Partnership projects must demonstrate that:

  • control and responsibilities in the partnership are shared equally amongst all partners
  • knowledge and practices will be shared and exchanged for the benefit of all project partners
  • the partnership results in activity that is beyond the normal programming of partnering organizations
  • the project could not be otherwise completed without the existence of the partnership

Ineligible organizations

Ineligible organizations are:

  • municipalities
  • commercial enterprises
  • schools
  • groups that are not arm’s length from municipalities, commercial enterprises or schools
  • organizations that engage primarily in competition-based activity
What does this funding support?

Eligible summer school projects must:

  • consist of residence-based art-intensive camp programs of no less than five (5) consecutive days in length where students are provided with supervision, meals and overnight accommodation
  • take place between July 1 and August 31
  • deliver arts programming to students ages 11-19 years
  • provide students access to Alberta's professional artists and instructors
  • provide a daily regime of workshops and other hands-on activities for students to learn arts skill techniques and actively engage in creative process learning
  • provide adequate participant supervision and safety requirements
  • deliver age-appropriate curriculum and course content
  • encourage participants to discover and express their creative potential
  • provide workshops and other activity in an appropriate inclusive environment
  • encourage province-wide participation

Eligible expenses

Applicants may apply for up to 40% of eligible expenses that are directly related to carrying out the proposed project, such as:

  • administration
  • programming
  • instructor and artist fees
  • promotional costs
  • accommodation and classroom arrangements
  • equipment rental costs and related extracurricular activities
  • supervisory staff
  • course and content development
  • food and lodging
  • materials and supplies
  • other expenses considered by the AFA to be reasonable and necessary

Ineligible expenses

Expenses and activities that are ineligible for AFA funding include:

  • activities eligible for funding or already funded by AFA
  • activity undertaken before an application is submitted to this project grant stream. Projects must not start before the application is received by the AFA
  • projects or programs offered by affiliated organizations that are eligible for funding under other AFA programs
  • expenses related to eligible projects or programs that are covered by the institution (e.g. facility costs, permanent staff salaries, overhead costs) Summer schools operated by organizations whose permanent staff contribute significantly to the administration, promotion and operation of the school can declare up to 15% of permanent staff salaries, and must include a description of the applicable work undertaken by permanent staff
  • activities by applied arts (culinary, architecture, graphic arts, commercial photography, gaming), variety acts (face painting, balloon entertainers, fireworks/pyrotechnics, hypnotism), competitive performances and activities at social events

Ineligible expenses also include, but are not limited to:

  • alcohol
  • amortization
  • GST expenses
  • fundraising expenses
  • purchases such as buildings or property, or capital development such as construction or renovations
How to apply

We only accept applications through the Grant Administration Tracking and Evaluation (GATE) Front Office online application system.

We must receive your online application through GATE Front Office no later than 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time on the deadline date, unless the deadline falls on a statutory holiday or a weekend when it will be extended until the next working day. Please give the system time to process your application so that the AFA receives notification of your submission before the deadline falls.

GATE Front Office username registration

First-time applicants will require a GATE Front Office username and password. Requests must be received at least five business days prior to the application deadline.

Please complete the GATE Front Office Registration form and email it as an attachment to registrationAFA@gov.ab.ca.

GATE Front Office usernames and passwords will be sent to the email addresses provide on the registration form.

What to include in your application

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please download the GATE Front Office user guide.

First, complete the GATE Front Office Applicant Profile section with all required information.

GATE Front Office online forms

  • contact list: A listing of primary and secondary contact persons and signing authority designate for the application
  • applicant contact information: Street and mailing address
  • organization information: the organization’s registration details, including Alberta Registration number, Canadian Charitable Registration number (if applicable) and incorporation date
  • organization applicant agreement: An Applicant Agreement with e-signature of signing authority designate for the organization
  • summer school participation report: Number of Participants per Age Range and geographic area for the organization’s most recent residence-based art program
  • current board List: A list of all current members of the board of Directors, including names, titles, complete mailing addresses, telephone and fax numbers and e-mail addresses
  • project expenses: Complete the online form providing a detailed budget in Canadian dollars, indicating all projected summer school expenditures
  • project budget:  The difference between expenditures and revenues will comprise the grant request to the AFA and cannot exceed 40% of the proposed budget.
  • project revenue: Complete the online form providing a detailed, budget in Canadian dollars, indicating all projected non-AFA revenues.

Attachments

Attachments must be developed prior to application, using either original documents specific to your organization or preformatted AFA templates, and uploaded to your online GATE Front Office submission.

The GATE Front Office attachment section indicates that not all attachments are required for submission. This is because they are only required for certain types of projects (e.g. marketing plan for a marketing project). It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all attachments noted in the guidelines are submitted with their application.

You’ll be required to complete and upload the following attachments in PDF format:

  • resumes of curriculum designers, instructors, and other principal organizers (no more than four pages each) outlining their professional arts background, including training and any previous experience with delivering arts training to youth, or job descriptions if positions have yet to be filled
  • a detailed description of the arts summer school program to be offered, including:
    • list of workshops and description of arts skills training and engagement in the creative process
    • detailed daily program schedule
    • materials and supplies (if applicable)
    • number of students
    • program structure, fees and registration
    • contracting instructors, technical and participant supervisory staff
    • extra-curricular activities, if applicable
    • food and lodging arrangements
    • other logistical and administrative functions required for an arts summer school operation
  • copies of promotional material and public communications materials related to the summer school
  • a description of the organization’s history of providing arts training programs
  • the organization’s most recent approved annual financial statement of revenue and expenditure
  • a confirmation of filing of the most recent return from Alberta Corporate Registry
  • a copy of the organization’s Sexual and Workplace Harassment Policy for summer school staff and participants, with confirmation that this policy has been formally adopted within the past year
  • a marketing plan detailing province wide promotion of the program
  • for partnership projects, a copy of the contract or letter of agreement that indicates the responsibilities of each partner, and the knowledge, resources and experience that each will contribute
  • additional support materials that may assist in the assessment process. These may include but are not limited to, promotional literature, programs, or newsletters
    • all video and audio files must be Windows compatible, MP3 and MP4 files are preferred
    • wherever possible, support material should be uploaded as an attachment into GATE Front Office (up to 4 MB)
    • if your support material is too large to upload, please mail a hard copy CD or USB to 10708 – 105 Ave, Edmonton, AB, T5H 0A1. Please include your first name, last name and project number on the CD or USB

Applicants may be asked for additional information.

Applicants may submit only one application to this grant stream per arts discipline.

Partnerships

Applications for partnership projects must be submitted through one primary organization. The primary organization must designate the main contact for all requirements of the grant. Each organization involved in a partnership project must submit financial statements and confirmation of their corporate registries return.

How will my application be assessed?

The annual AFA budget is based upon funds allocated in the annual Government of Alberta budget and funding for this grant stream is established by the AFA board of Directors.

Staff convene an expert panel to consider all eligible grant applications submitted to each grant deadline. The expert panel assesses the merit of each application both on its own terms and in relation to all other applications received for a given deadline.

Assessment of a project is based on the following general criteria

  • merit of curriculum
  • merit of marketing plan
  • impact of the program on participants
  • applicant’s history of providing training programs
  • artistic and technical level of instructors
  • instructors level of experience teaching arts to youth  
  • appropriateness of summer school budget
  • the ability of the applicant to carry out the proposed project

The expert panel will be encouraged ensure support is provided to projects in a variety of arts disciplines. All decisions are final. Funding is not assured for any project.

Learn more about expert panels and how the AFA adjudicates funding requests for all programs.

When will I hear?

Grant recommendations are made to the AFA board of directors. Successful recipients will be notified upon board approval, generally between four to six months from the application deadline.

Conditions

Funding is intended for the purposes described in your application. By accepting funding, you agree to undertake the project as proposed in your original project description.

If you do not receive the full grant amount requested, you are still required to complete the project as proposed if you accept the grant:

  • you must return the grant funds if the project cannot be completed as proposed

If you require a change to your project including outcomes, location or an extension to your final report due date:

  • you must submit a request in writing for approval by the AFA
  • the request must be submitted prior to the change being made and/or before your final report is due
  • the AFA may consider a single extension per funding opportunity

Funding recipients are responsible for informing the AFA of how funds were spent and outcomes of the project:

  • you must return funds if reporting requirements are not met
  • you must return unused portions of funding to the AFA

Any funding recipient who does not provide a report prior to the date noted in the successful notification document, or does not fulfill any conditions associated with a grant or whose report is not approved will be made delinquent and ineligible for further funding from the AFA for a period of three years from the time the delinquency is resolved.

In addition to reporting requirements, applicants may be required to provide interim activity reports, financial reports or statements and other information deemed necessary by the AFA or its representatives. The AFA, or its authorized representative, may examine the applicant's financial and other records to ensure that the grant is being, or was used for its intended purpose.

  • the AFA will retain all materials submitted with grant applications
  • the AFA does not provide advances for any grant

Funding acknowledgement

Whenever possible, you must acknowledge the AFA for financial support in any publicity prepared in relation to the project, including electronic, print or visual material.

Download versions of the AFA logo and guidelines for usage.

A minimum reduction of 10% will be applied to any subsequent grant of any organization that does not satisfy the AFA acknowledgement requirements.

Reporting

You are required to complete and submit a satisfactory final report in GATE Front Office upon completion of the project by November 1 following the summer school.

The final report must include:

  • summer school participation report: online form that outlines the total number of participants and the number of participants categorized by age and geographic region
  • outcomes report:  a description of the results of the summer school, with an evaluation of its success in relation to the original objectives as stated in the application
  • financial report: showing project expenditures and income including AFA summer school grant funds
  • copies of promotional materials in which AFA support is acknowledged
Helpful resources

Visit the Help and Resources section of our website to:

  • download the new Front Office User Guide
  • find additional resources for organizations

Should your organization wish to receive payment through direct deposit, please use the Direct Deposit form:

Deadline information

Emerging Curator Fellowship

Grant subtitle
This fellowship provides $15,000 to develop an exhibition at the AFA art house in Calgary.
Select staff contact
Art Collections Consultant - Acquisitions
Recipient type
Individual
Art discipline
Visual arts & new media
Preview image
Facebook title
Emerging Curator Fellowship
Facebook description
This fellowship provides $15,000 to develop an exhibition at the AFA art house in Calgary.
Twitter title
Emerging Curator Fellowship
Twitter description
This fellowship provides $15,000 to develop an exhibition at the AFA art house in Calgary.
Expiry
Owner
Arts Services Consultant - Communications
Overview

This fellowship is designed to support the growth and development of curatorial talent by contracting an individual or ensemble of individuals to develop content for an exhibition of Albertan visual art.

This initiative is intended to bring a new perspective to the artworks and artists featured in the AFA Art Collection while increasing visibility for pieces in mediums and sizes that currently have limited circulation within AFA's TREX exhibition program and art placement initiatives.

The final exhibition produced as a result of this fellowship will be displayed at the AFA art house in Calgary.

Who can apply

This opportunity is open to emerging curators with less than six years of curatorial experience but a strong interest in developing their practice. Collaborating curatorial teams/collectives who are artists, art historians, curators, arts administrators, educators or from any other related discipline are eligible to apply to this program if all project curators meet the individual eligibility criteria. 

Proposals will be accepted from any of the following applicants:

  • Applicants 18 years of age or older
  • Individuals with either a college degree or undergraduate studies from a recognized institution
  • Canadian citizens or permanent residents with a connection to Alberta. This includes:
    • Alberta curators – a curator, or curatorial team, with an Alberta address as their primary residence
    • Expatriate curators – curators who were previously an Alberta resident but no longer have an Alberta address
    • Non-Alberta curators – A non-Alberta curator may be considered to have a meaningful Alberta connection if they meet one or more of the following criteria:
      • Curated or contributed to exhibitions presented in Alberta
      • Collaborated with Alberta-based artists, Indigenous communities, or cultural organizations
      • Conducted research or published work relevant to Alberta’s cultural or historical context
      • Participated in Alberta-based residencies, fellowships, or professional development programs
      • Self-identify as Indigenous and have family, cultural or Treaty ties to Alberta.

Please note: applicants that currently hold an open AFA project grant are eligible to compete for, and enter into, a contract with the AFA through the Emerging Curators Fellowship.

Ineligible applicants

The following applicants are ineligible:

  • Applicants with more than six years of professional, curatorial experience
  • Applicants who are employed full-time in a curatorial role at a museum, gallery, or cultural institution
  • Applicants currently enrolled in an undergraduate program
  • Applicants, including ensembles, who are incorporated under either provincial or federal legislation
  • Previous recipients of this fellowship.
What does this funding support?

Individuals or curatorial teams are invited to view the AFA Art Collection holdings and to submit a proposed exhibition concept to be displayed in the AFAs art house gallery in Calgary, Alberta. 

A contract worth up to $15,000 per proposal is available for this project. A maximum of one fellowship will be awarded.

Once awarded, the successful emerging curators will work with AFA staff to fully develop the exhibition concept and design and implement an accompanying educational enhancement in support of the exhibition. 

The Fellowship is structured as a two-year initiative. 

The selected fellow will be required to work with assigned AFA staff throughout the project to: 

  • Curate an exhibition of up to 20 artworks from the AFA Art Collection for the approximately 3000 square feet art house gallery space in Calgary. The number of artworks in the final exhibition may vary depending on the size of the artworks and the feasibility and complexity of installation.
  • Prepare a curatorial statement, a 150-word introductory panel and accompanying object labels (max. 25 words each) for the exhibition.
  • Complete a schematic design for the layout and look of the exhibition in consultation with AFA staff.
  • Participate in two on-site research/development visits to the AFA Collection in Edmonton and one visit to the art house located in the Edison building in Calgary. If you are located outside of Edmonton and/or Calgary, please take travel into account in your budget and proposal.
  • Develop one or more educational enhancement(s) to accompany the physical exhibition such as a gallery guide, lesson plans, virtual exhibition or public program such as events or workshops.

Selected fellow(s) will receive:

  • $15,000.00 for an individual or team/collective
  • Mentorship from AFA staff in developing the final exhibit concept and design
  • Physical access to the AFA Art Collection for exhibition research and development
  • Assistance in curatorial artwork selection and access to high-resolution digital images of artworks (as required).
  • AFA support for the preparation, install and promotion of the exhibition at the AFA art house gallery.

Ineligible projects

The following projects are ineligible:

  • Exhibitions prepared as part of post-secondary programs or where academic credits are given
  • Exhibitions already completed or due to be completed before the commencement of the funding period (funding will not be provided retroactively)
  • Exhibitions that have been previously published, produced or exhibited
  • Costs for business start-up and the purchase of basic equipment (for example, personal computer and software)

 

How to apply

The AFA will accept fellowship applications by mail or email at the address listed below. 

Email applications must be received by 2 pm of the deadline date; while all mailed applications must be postmarked with the application date. 

Please note:

  • The AFA does not accept late or incomplete applications
  • Applications must be received prior to the commencement of the project
  • Projects involving more than one artist must be submitted by one individual on behalf of the ensemble or group. The AFA will not accept separate applications for the same project.

Applications can be mailed or emailed to:

Elizabeth Capak, Art Collections Consultant -- Acquisitions
Alberta Foundation for the Arts (Arts Branch)
10708 105 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5H 0A1

Email: elizabeth.capak@gov.ab.ca

What to include in your application

Applicants must submit:

  • Statement of Interest (max. 500 words) addressing:
    • Why you are interested in curating
    • How this Fellowship would help support your curatorial career
    • Your curatorial values and approach
    • Your past knowledge and experience working with Alberta’s visual arts
  • Resume or CV outlining relevant experience of all curators involved
  • Exhibition Proposal (max. 500 words) including:
    • Proposed theme or concept
    • Target audience, engagement strategy and proposed educational enhancement(s)
    • Proposed project timeline and budget. Please note business start-up costs or basic equipment purchases are ineligible.
  • Work Samples:
    • Gallery text from two previous curatorial projects (maximum 3 pages, pdf) along with applicable artwork label text (maximum of 4 labels, pdf).
    • Up to 6 images of past curatorial or artistic work (in jpeg format, up to 5 MB each)
How will my application be assessed?

Applications will be assessed based on the following:

  • Applicant’s experience and potential for growth and development based on their Resume/CV, Statement of Interest and past work samples
  • Quality, innovation and originality of the exhibition proposal
  • Ability to engage Alberta audiences and increase the visibility for pieces in mediums and sizes that currently have limited circulation within AFA’s TREX exhibition program and art placement initiatives
  • Quality and creativity of proposed engagement strategy and educational enhancement(s)
  • Feasibility of the proposed project and timeline
  • Budget accuracy and feasibility

Eligible proposals will be scored by a panel of three experienced arts professionals.

When will I hear?

The projected start date for successful proposals is February 2026.

Other Key Dates: 

  • Draft Exhibition Plan Submission is due in December 2026.
  • The AFA art house exhibition installation and opening is expected to occur in May 2027, followed by the implementation of the exhibition enhancements. 
Conditions

A general service contract must be signed between the Contractor(s) and the Foundation before the fellowship can commence. 

Contractor(s) must carry personal and automobile liability insurance. Proof of insurance must be provided to the AFA before commencing the Services. 

Funding acknowledgement

Whenever possible, you must acknowledge the AFA for financial support in any publicity prepared in relation to the project, including electronic, print, or visual material.

Download versions of the AFA logo and guidelines for usage.

Reporting

Any specific reporting requirements will be outlined in the final contract between successful applicants and the AFA.

Helpful resources

The Alberta Foundation for the Arts (AFA) stewards a vibrant art collection of nearly 10,000 artworks, highlighting the creativity of over 2,160 Alberta artists across multiple media. Through ongoing support from the AFA, Alberta’s artistic community, and the public, the collection continues to grow reflecting the diversity of artists and practices in Alberta. View the collection online at Collections – AFA Virtual Museum.

The AFA is committed to increasing public circulation and recognition of the AFA Art Collection. In addition to our artwork loans, placement and Travelling Exhibitions (TREX) programs, the AFA recently launched a new venue to share these works: AFA art house. Located in the heart of Downtown Calgary in The Edison building, art house is a visual arts gallery dedicated to exhibiting Alberta artists and the AFA Art Collection. 

Learn more at https://affta.ab.ca/art-house/

Deadline information
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