Banff International Curatorial Institute Fellowship Fall 2020

Program Overview

The Banff International Curatorial Institute (BICI) Fellowship supports established curators, arts writers, cultural critics, and researchers in focusing deeply on the continued development of their work. The program allows for self-directed research over an extended period of 12 weeks within the creative and intellectually stimulating environment of Visual Arts. Participants are selected by an international jury for this unique, fully-scholarshipped program.

In addition to focusing on their own practice, participants will engage with each other as well as artists-in-residence in Visual Arts programs—meet with them to grow their networks and expand their research, visit studios or hold office hours, join reading groups, share knowledge through presenting research in progress, as well as engage with Banff Centre’s curatorial and artistic staff. The BICI Fellowship coincides with the Banff Visual Artist Fellowship, and participants in both programs are encouraged to work closely together.

While in residence participants may work on the continuation of an existing project, the early development of a substantial new project, create work towards a confirmed external publication or exhibition, or conduct research involving BICI publications and Banff Centre’s permanent collection and archives. Projects and research that are timely, socially relevant, and of high artistic merit will be considered as well as participants who are generous and willing to engage with the creative community.

What does the program offer?

This program provides an extended period of time for writers, curators, and researchers to develop non-studio based work and pursue critical research.  Scheduled programming is light to allow for self-directed project development, and opportunities to connect and collaborate. 

Participants can attend talks and presentations by faculty and guests of Visual Arts residency programs and Walter Phillips Gallery, and expand networks through connecting with artists from around the world.

Participants will have a private office that is accessible 24 hours a day in which to work.

What length of residency is available?

This program requires a full time commitment with the understanding that absences will be minimal. Alternative dates cannot be considered.

Who should apply?

This program is open to mid- to- senior-level curators, arts writers, cultural critics, and researchers exploring original topics within visual arts.

Applicants should have an established exhibition/publication record, have completed formal training in visual arts at the post-secondary level, or equivalent experience and recognition from their peers. 

Dates: September 14 - December 04, 2020