W A T E R
Union House Arts is located in the coastal town of Port Union, a heritage district that once housed the Fishermen’s Protective Union in the early to mid 20th century. Our programming theme for 2026-2027 is “WATER.” This theme 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.
As our planet warms and our waters change, many have seen an increase in severe storms, flooding, and damage to delicate ecosystems—both in and out of water. For centuries, Newfoundland and Labrador has always existed precariously with the ocean waters that surround it. Now, as we live in a global climate crisis, many of the natural wonders of the ocean are starting to disappear: icebergs are melting at a faster rate; whales, fish, and seabirds are shifting migration routes; shorelines are errording, with some even disappearing. We live in a critical time. There is an ever-increasing need for communities to come together to care for our planet, our wetlands, and our waters—as they have cared for us for time immemorial.
Building upon these lived realities, Union House Arts’ theme of “WATER” is not only timely, but necessary for Newfoundland communities to engage in. Union House Arts’ hopes that building programing around this theme will invite residents and visitors alike to engage in conversations surrounding climate-crisis and the many ways that coastal and island communities, like Newfoundland, are intimately connected to the threat of rising water temperatures, and the life and loss that accompanies this threat.
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 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.
Artists can get involved with this theme by applying to either our Artist in Residence Program or our Open Call for Exhibitions. Please follow the links below to learn more about each program, and how you can apply.