RBC Emerging Visual Artists Program

Becoming a successful artist is about more than innate ability; it is a purposeful combination of opportunity, meaningful hard work, and mentorship.

The RBC Emerging Visual Artists Program (RBC EVAP) provides an opportunity for emerging visual artists in Calgary to develop their artistic practice; to showcase their work to the public through exhibitions, open studio, and speaking engagements; and hone their professional skills in order to build a solid foundation for a successful career.

RBC EVAP artists will participate in the following sessions:

• Four professional development sessions (such as financial planning, grant writing, how to improve artist statements and bios, networking, etc.)
• One-on-one mentorship opportunities with Arts Commons’ Visual and Media Arts Curator
• Group mentorship sessions with established artists and curator
• Two panel discussion events that connect emerging artists with local galleries and arts professionals

RBC EVAP artists will be featured in the following Arts Commons Galleries spaces:

• Ledge Gallery
• Lightbox Studio
• Window Galleries (including up to four individual exhibitions)

Who is this program for?
The RBC Emerging Visual Artists Program at Arts Commons focuses on supporting visual emerging artists across all art forms who generally:

• Self-identify as emerging or are between the ages of 18 and 35.
• Are in the early stages of their career, in their art form, usually within the first few years.
• Are demonstrably committed to devoting more time to their artistic activity.
• Are involved in their creative community.
• Have not yet been showcased outside their primary country of residence.
• Devote a minimum of 24 hours per week to their art.
• Make a financial commitment to their practice and seek their primary income from their artistic work.
• Have little presentation or publication history.
• Are enrolled in, or have recently graduated from, a related degree/diploma program.

For more information on this program and to apply, please visit: ​https://www.artscommons.ca/learn-and-engage/connects/rbc-emerging-artist-program