Supported by TD Bank Group, program advances reconciliation and cultural exchange
Supporting Indigenous students and community-based artists in building sustainable professional careers, Piiksinaasin (Manifesting Beauty), the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Lethbridge is launching an Indigenous Artist(s) in Residence (IAiR) program and opening its call for applications for its inaugural cohort.
Generously supported by TD Bank Group, the IAiR program provides Indigenous artists with the time, space and resources to develop new creative work, advance their careers and artistic practice and engage with ULethbridge and southern Alberta communities. The program also supports the Faculty of Fine Arts’ commitment to fostering reconciliation and furthering meaningful intercultural dialogue.
The IAiR program embeds artists within both the University and the surrounding region, creating opportunities for sustained cultural learning and exchange while empowering artists to focus on achieving their creative goals.
Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Dr. Heather Davis-Fisch, says the program reflects the Faculty’s commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and strengthening relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
“By providing opportunities for professional development and career advancement close to community, artists can continue their training without sacrificing their connections to family, community and land,” says Davis-Fisch. “By supporting artists, we are investing not only in individual careers, but also in cultural resilience, community connection and the next generation of artistic and cultural leaders.”
As part of the residency, artists will produce new work, mentor students and share their creative practices through public engagement opportunities. Artists will be supported culturally and artistically by the Faculty, while receiving financial support from TD’s gift.
“At TD, we believe communities are stronger when diverse voices and perspectives are supported and celebrated," says Robert Ghazal, Senior Vice President and Alberta Region Head, TD. "Indigenous artists play a vital role in enriching our communities, yet many still face barriers to growing and sharing their work. Through our support of the Indigenous Artist(s) in Residence program, we’re proud to help create space for Indigenous artists to develop their craft, strengthen their careers and connect with the community. Programs like this help foster inclusion, deepen cultural understanding and build stronger communities across southern Alberta.”
ULethbridge and the Faculty of Fine Arts are uniquely positioned to offer world-class facilities and resources to local Indigenous artists, supporting work that bridges cultural divides, fosters dialogue and deepens understanding.
“Piiksinaasin is a place where beauty can be manifested. The IAiR program will give Indigenous artists from the community an opportunity to come to Iniskim (University of Lethbridge) to share their beauty manifestation skills, encouraging students along the way to engage in beauty manifestations and storytelling through art,” says Iitspinnimaki, Amethyst First Rider, Elder Advisor and member of the Fine Arts Iniskim Advisory Circle.
Call for applications
Applications are now open for the inaugural Indigenous Artist(s) in Residence cohort. Emerging and early career Indigenous artists working in all disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Expressions of Interest will be accepted until August 31, 2026. Following this, the Fine Arts Iniskim Advisory Circle will shortlist artists and work with them to submit full proposals, with inaugural recipients to be announced in late 2026.
For more information about the Indigenous Artist(s) in Residence program and application details, visit https://www.ulethbridge.ca/fine-arts/indigenous-artists-residence.