2025 Black August Arts Residency - Open Call for Applications
This is an open call for applications for the Black August Arts Residency (BAAR) 2025. This is a two-week, inter-arts residency taking place in July/August 2025 at the Arthubs Gibraltar Point in Toronto, Ontario. BAAR is an opportunity for Black artists to explore their practices in a safe and supportive environment that centers care, rest, and process over production.
About Black August
This residency honours Black August - an annual commemoration that grows out of the prison system-to remember Black freedom fighters and political prisoners and to highlight Bla resistance against racial oppression. The residency honors the ongoing fight for Black liberation participants engage with their artistic practice as a tool for liberation and building collective Black futures.
Residency Experience
The Black August Arts Residency will bring together emerging, mid-career and established Black artists for a two-week exploration and deep dive into their practice and artistry. It is an intentional safer space for Black artists and creators to focus on their art practice AND on their rest and safety. It is an opportunity to work on your art practice without needing to rush or over-produce and weave healing, stillness and slowness into the work. Participants will have dedicated studio time, artist talks and curatorial engagements with their work.
Residency Program Information
Residency Program Summary
Application Information
Travel:
We encourage participants from across Turtle Island to apply.
- We do not cover travel expenses to and from the residency
- Travel to the Toronto Island ferry docks is to be arranged by participant and we are happy to provide recommendations on the easiest transport routes.
- There are a number of travel grants that participants can apply for to cover airfare or train transportation.
Participation Requirements:
- To receive the most fulsome experience, we recommend participants live and create on the island for the full residency
- however, we understand that you may have other commitments and ask that you let a facilitator know.
- Participants will be asked to sign an artist agreement in acknowledgement of our shared values and responsibilities
Fee and Funding Opportunities:
- There is no fee to apply or participate in the residency
- Accommodation, meals and programming are all covered
- There are a number of grants that participants can apply for to support your participation(we can provide a letter of confirmation.