Spirit Prize

Generously supported by ULethbridge Chancellor and alumnus Terry Whitehead (BA '94), the Spirit Prize aims to support an emerging Indigenous visual artist, working in traditional or contemporary practices, in developing their career and helping them to advance as an artist. This competition is open to full-time or part-time self-declared Indigenous students (undergraduate or graduate), enrolled in any program of study at the University of Lethbridge. The winner will receive a cash prize of $2,500 to be used towards a residency, a mentorship, travel to study in support of their art practice, a workshop to develop advanced skills, materials to realize a major project, or to support an exhibition.

Submissions will be assessed and selected by a committee consisting of: the Director/Curator of the U of L Art Gallery or designate, an Indigenous Art Studio faculty member, and the Manager of Iikaisskini or designate.

Award selection will be made on the following criteria:

• Commitment to art practice
• Creativity and concept proposed
• Connection of art practice with Indigenous knowledge and perspectives
• Completeness and professionalism of submission

Once the project, exhibition or professional development opportunity is complete, the prize recipient is asked to provide a one-page summary of what they learned, a reflection on the experience, and a brief accounting of how the funds were spent.

Value: $2,500

Number: One

Eligibility: Full-time or part-time self-declared Indigenous students (undergraduate or graduate), enrolled in any program of study at the University of Lethbridge.

Deadline: January 31, 2025

Submission Requirements

Complete the application form according to the guidelines.

Application Form

Written Materials

1. Title and one sentence summary
2. Timeline with project start and end dates (max 250 words). Identify key steps and the dates for their completion.
3. C.V. and short biography (max 200 words.)
4. Describe your project. Explain the inspiration for your project or why you wish to undertake it at this time. (max 500 words).
   • How will this project contribute to your artistic development?
   • How does your project connect with your Indigenous identity, Indigenous knowledge, or Indigenous cultural practices?
   • If relevant, include how appropriate protocols are/will be observed.
5. If applicable, how will you ensure safe working conditions for yourself and those involved in this project? (100 words)
6. If you were selected to participate in a residency, describe how the residency will contribute to the successful completion of your project. Also, describe the registration process, the selection process and whether or not you have been officially accepted. (max 250 words)

Creative Support Materials

1. Support documentation of previous or related artwork. Choose one of the following options:
   A. Digital Images (10 maximum),
   B. Digital Images (5 maximum) and Audio-Visual Material (5 minutes total), or
   C. Audio-Visual Material (10 minutes maximum).
2. For guidelines and instructions please review the application form.

Application Process

Submit completed application form and required materials to the link below:

Questions? Contact:

Dr. Josephine Mills

Read about the 2024 Spirit Prize winner, Martin Roundstone!

Read story