This residency invites Indigenous designers and artists to advance personal design projects exploring contemporary and avant-garde approaches to garment and accessory design. The program welcomes artists working in areas such as jewelry, belts, handbags, headpieces, necklaces and bracelets, with an emphasis on new, unusual and experimental ideas that push beyond traditional forms and approaches.
This hybrid residency combines one week of online connection and learning with four weeks of in-person project development at Banff Centre, including studio access, workshops and faculty mentorship.
Faculty-led workshops will explore pattern development and creative techniques that will help designers achieve avant garde aesthetic. Participants will also have dedicated time to work on your projects and share their works in progress through an Open Studios event.
Description
The residency begins with an online week from April 5–9, 2027, giving participants the opportunity to connect with faculty, Banff Centre staff and special guest artists before arriving on campus. The online component includes group sessions and one-on-one meetings to establish connections, introduce the program and help participants prepare for their time on campus.
Upon arriving on campus, April 12 to May 7, 2027, participants will complete an orientation and receive access to Visual Arts facilities and a dedicated studio. During the in-person residency, participants will:
- Take part in faculty-led workshops to explore creative processes, pattern development and techniques for creating avant-garde garments and accessories.
- Participate in one-on-one consultations with faculty and guest artists.
- Have access to a dedicated studio for independent work.
- Receive technical guidance and production facility overviews from Visual Arts Facilitators.
- Develop their personal projects through hands-on experimentation and dedicated studio time.
- Receive individual feedback and mentorship from faculty and guest artists.
The residency concludes with an Open Studios event, providing an opportunity for participants to share their works in progress with the Banff Centre community.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
This program is open to individual Indigenous artists fashion makers, designers, and design companies, including those working with a collaborator from regional, national, and global locations. Participants should have:
- A background in fashion or garment design.
- Basic knowledge of sewing and embellishments.
- Experience in garment construction ideal, but not pre-requisite if working on accessories and using a sewing machine.
- Ability to push past traditional and accepted boundaries.
Duos in collaboration are welcome to apply. Collaborator is considered a student and must in program workshops.
Participants must be available to attend all elements of the program for its entire duration; variable participation dates will not be considered.
Total Program Fee $8 605.80
Banff Centre Indigenous Arts Scholarship $8 605.80
Participant Cost* $0.00
Application Fee
$35 for individuals and groups who identify as Indigenous.
This non-refundable fee covers the full cost of processing your application, including the SlideRoom fee.
Scholarships
We are pleased to offer a range of scholarships to support participants in our programs.
- Banff Centre Indigenous Arts Scholarship
Program participants receive a Banff Centre Arts Scholarship that covers the full cost of tuition, accommodation and meals.
*Participant costs shown above reflect the cost after the scholarship has been applied. To be eligible for Banff Centre scholarship, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials.
Total Program Fee $8 605.80
Banff Centre Indigenous Arts Scholarship $8 605.80
Participant Cost* $0.00
Application Fee
$35 for individuals and groups who identify as Indigenous.
This non-refundable fee covers the full cost of processing your application, including the SlideRoom fee.
Scholarships
We are pleased to offer a range of scholarships to support participants in our programs.
- Banff Centre Indigenous Arts Scholarship
Program participants receive a Banff Centre Arts Scholarship that covers the full cost of tuition, accommodation and meals.
*Participant costs shown above reflect the cost after the scholarship has been applied. To be eligible for Banff Centre scholarship, please complete the Financial Aid section when uploading your supporting materials.