Open Call for artworks, performance, and fashion on theme of SUPPORT

Based at the University of Alberta, the Co-Designing a Smartwear Revolution project is currently trying to develop “smart” garments that can respond to the body and provide support when it is needed. In order to spark conversation, critique and co-design with the communities that our smart garments aim to serve, we invite artists to engage with and creatively respond to our work.

We seek Expressions of Interest (EOI) to create artworks, fashion creations and performances for a  festival around the theme of SUPPORT in May 2028. The festival will feature exhibitions, dance or theatre performances, live dress or fashion events, creative research presentations, open lab activities, and public discussions. We welcome national and international artists, performers, designers  and artist-researchers of all abilities.

The application is in two stages. Stage 1 involves sending us an Expression of Interest (EOI) by December 15, 2026. Stage 2 applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal by February 15, 2027, with results announced March 15, 2027.

EOIs can be submitted through the Google form on our website. EOIs should include:

• Application form
• Artist statement (250-500 words)
• Artist biography or short CV (250-500 words)
• 8-10 work samples
• Project proposal

More detailed information about the project and application process can be found on our website: https://smartwearrevolution.com/open-call/. 

Please email us at adwg@ualberta.ca if you would like to register for an online information session at either of the following dates: 

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 4 to 5 pm MST
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 at 6 to 7 pm MST
Wednesday, December 9, 2026 at 4 to 6pm MST