Indigenous Arts

Purpose

The program funds the work of Ontario-based Indigenous curators and curators who are people of colour. It aims to increase the ability of Ontario public galleries, artist-run centres and other organizations to present projects by Indigenous curators and curators who are people of colour in contexts determined by the participants. The program supports relationship building between curators, galleries, and audiences. There are two categories:

Purpose

The program supports craft-based practices through grants to Ontario-based artists, curators, ad hoc groups, collectives and organizations. The program has five categories:

Purpose

The program supports opportunities for Ontario artists at any stage of their career to acquire new artistic skills to advance their arts practice. It funds all contemporary and traditional art practices that are supported at OAC. All learning must be led by an expert and include feedback throughout the training period. Experts include mentors, teachers, trainers, and Elders. Projects may include study, training, mentorship, and/or apprenticeship.

There are two categories:

Purpose

The program supports the research, development and realization of community-engaged arts projects in Ontario. Activities involve professional Ontario artists and community members working together to design, develop and realize collective creative experiences.

The Indigenous Arts and Culture Partnerships Fund supports partnerships and collaborations that create new opportunities and visibility for Indigenous-led arts and culture. The fund aims to spark new relationships between Indigenous artists, arts and culture leaders and professionals, and potential partners at both the grassroots and institutional levels.

The Short-Term Projects component of Creating, Knowing and Sharing funds First Nations, Inuit and Métis professional and aspiring artists, cultural carriers, arts/cultural professionals, groups, collectives and arts/culture organizations. Grants provide support for any combination of eligible Creating, Knowing and Sharing activities for projects lasting up to 12 months.

First-time applicants are strongly encouraged to speak to a Program Officer before applying.

The Small-Scale Activities component of Creating, Knowing and Sharing funds activities that will advance your artistic career or practice. This may include acquiring materials for artistic production, engaging in career or artistic development activities or benefitting from specific expertise, advice or training from a professional artist or cultural carrier. This component is open to First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, artistic groups, collectives and organizations working in all disciplines.