Location: Port Union, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Duration: 3 to 5 weeks
Slots: January 2025 – December 2025
Supports: Accommodations, Kitchen, Workspace, Local Connections, Honorarium
Artists’ Cost: Transportation, Food, Materials
Deadline: 22 February, 2025, 23:59 Newfoundland Standard Time (+3:30)
Notification: 22 March, 2025 or sooner.
Please read about our Artist in Residence Program and Community prior to applying.
OVERVIEW:
UHA is accepting applications for our 2026 Artist-in-Residence program!
This residency will provide studio space, living quarters, and additional supports for professional artists to have the opportunity to experiment with their practice, develop their focus, and test new ideas in the unique historic district of Port Union.
UHA will work with selected artists to create residencies that support both artist and community development. While it is not expected that the applicant has an existing relationship with Port Union, the committee will consider both the relevancy and the feasibility of the proposal in the context of Port Union, as well as the potential for meaningful and relevant public engagement when making their selections.
During the 2026 season, we are focusing on projects that relate to our WATER Programming. The theme WATER was selected to support and relate to continued conversations surrounding the impacts of climate change, community connections to the ocean, and relationships to water as both a source of life and hardship. Our organization’s proximity to the ocean and nearby rivers directly influences the ways in which we operate as an organization, particularly our engagement with the historic and contemporary cultures of Ktaqamkuk (Newfoundland), Nunatsiavut, NunatuKavut, and Nitassinan (Labrador).
WATER is the giver and taker of life; a fact that has echoed for centuries through our island’s generations, cultures, and landscapes. Oceans and rivers are the very beings that connect us with one another—bodies that carry, hold, and protect us. The waters that surround us have fed, nurtured, cared for, and carved out the landscapes we all call home. Yet, water is also in motion and can quickly, and suddenly, change its grip; often taking back the life it so graciously gave. Concepts that will be prioritized include, but are not limited to, work that is responsive to: climate crisis, coastal economies, sustainable futures, habitat preservation, folklore, intergenerational knowledge, out-migration and immigration, and regenerative tourism.
Union House Arts is dedicated to working towards decolonization and creating diverse programming. We will privilege residencies for artists who identify as Indigenous, Black, 2SLGBTQIA, as well as New-Canadians and those with diverse backgrounds. Additionally, while this residency is open to those across and outside of Turtle Island, we will be reserving a number of residency slots for artists who reside in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Please note at this time, we are not able to offer compensation for travel or material expenses, however if you are selected for the Artist-in-Residence program, we would be happy to write letters of support for any funding sources you may be applying for.
Each artist will be paid an honorarium and will be paid CARFAC rate fees for artist workshops or talks.
HOW TO APPLY
Please use the below checklist to prepare your application for our Artist in Residence Program for slots in 2025. Applications can be uploaded to our google form at: https://forms.gle/MVZycEoDycXLLRew5
Applications are due on February 22, 11:59PM NST (+3:30). Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Inquiries regarding application support can be directed to unionhousearts@gmail.com. Some Frequently Asked Questions will be available at the bottom of this page!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I apply with another artist?
Yes! UHA has two studio apartments and two studios. If you would like to apply for a residency with a specific artist, please ensure that you apply under one application as a collective so we can pair you together for your residency. You can also apply with your partner! We have hosted up to four artists at once in our studios (as long as you’re okay sharing a bed).
Can I bring my significant other or other guests?
Family of all kinds are welcome to stay here at UHA! All we ask is that guests take care of and respect the space.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are welcome at UHA, however this may depend on your residency partner, contract staff, and other visitors we have over the course of your stay. We will do our best to accommodate you and your furry/scaley/fluffy friend!
I am not a visual artist, can I still apply?
Yes you can! We welcome artists of all disciplines. This can include writing, music, performance, and more! Please indicate in your proposal what you will be working with and focusing on during your stay.
What should I bring to wear during my residency?
Newfoundland and Labrador experiences very tumultuous shifts in weather. It is important to pack clothing that can be layered and bundled up in. A good rain jacket, cozy hat, and water-proof boots will do you well during any time of the year. For folks who visit from April – June, it is generally foggy, cold, and we experience rain, and usually snow, during this time with warmer spring days in-between. For folks visiting from July – September, these are generally our best months for weather and it is usually warm (between 15-25 degrees celcius, the humidity often makes it feel much warmer). October is cooler but has less rain, and then the winter winds often pick back up in November and run well into, and oftentimes past, March.
Will I be living alone?
Usually residents are paired with another artist depending on the available slots and timelines for each selected participant. On special occasions an artist will be the sole resident, however we have a friendly and accommodating staff to keep you company during your stay!
Additional questions can be forwarded to Bethany MacKenzie at unionhousearts@gmail.com