Artists in Communities program
Last Update: September 2, 2025
Vancouver, BC
Supports artist residencies to foster community engagement through art
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Unspecified
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
Funds Providers
Program status
Open
Overview
The Artists in Communities program funds artist residencies in Vancouver community centres to foster engagement and collaboration between artists and local residents through participatory art projects and creative workshops. The program supports a wide variety of activities that build community connections and leave lasting artistic or social legacies; however, the maximum funding amount is not specified in the available information.
Activities funded
- Artist residencies in community centres fostering collaboration between artists and local residents.
- Community-engaged art projects that encourage participation and skill-building.
- Workshops and programs that use art to build relationships and inspire community participation.
- Creation of collective artworks or creative processes that leave lasting physical or social legacies in communities.
- Development of inclusive programs connecting artists with diverse community members, including youth, elders, and newcomers.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 12,000
Launching mural workshops for intergenerational storytelling collaboration
$ 15,400
Community comic book creation with youth and seniors partnership
$ 12,750
Sculpture residency focusing on recycled materials and environmental themes
$ 18,000
Collaborative textile mosaic with immigrant and Indigenous participants
$ 15,000
Printmaking program connecting LGBTQ+ artists with local neighbourhood
$ 19,900
Photography workshops culminating in a large-scale outdoor exhibition
Eligibility
- The applicant must be an artist or an arts organization interested in leading a community-engaged residency at a participating community centre.
- The proposed project must foster collaboration and active participation between artists and community members.
- The project should aim to leave a lasting physical or social legacy within the community, such as skill development, creative process learning, or the creation of an artwork.
Who is eligible?
- Artists working in community engagement
- Arts and culture organizations
- Non-profit groups focused on the arts
- Community centres interested in hosting artist residencies
Eligible geographic areas
- Organizations and individuals located in Vancouver, British Columbia.
How to apply
1
Review program and past residencies
- Explore the Artists in Communities program and learn about its purpose
- Read about previous and ongoing residencies to understand project scope and objectives
2
Verify eligibility criteria
- Read how the residencies work at participating community centres
- Determine eligibility based on your artist's practice, community involvement, and project type
3
Prepare application materials
- Prepare required application materials such as a project proposal and supporting documents
- Gather examples of previous work and letters of reference if needed
4
Start application on VanApply
- Access the VanApply platform to begin your submission
- Follow the help guide provided for application steps
5
Validate and submit application
- Review your application for completeness and accuracy before submitting
- Ensure all sections and supporting documents are attached
6
Await application results
- Submit your application via the VanApply platform
- Wait for a response regarding the status of your application
Additional information
- Artists in Communities residencies leave lasting physical or social legacies, such as creative skill-building and collaborative artmaking.
- Projects foster collaboration between artists and community members, involving residents as creators, performers, producers, and audiences.
- Residencies are hosted annually at participating community centres.
- Previous projects have included a range of artistic disciplines and engaged diverse community groups of all ages.
Contacts
arc.info@vancouver.ca
Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Artists in Communities program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Artists in Communities program. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Artists in Communities program?
How much funding can be received?
What expenses are eligible under Artists in Communities program?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Artists in Communities program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Artists in Communities program?
Who is eligible for the Artists in Communities program program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Artists in Communities program?
Where is the Artists in Communities program available?
Are youth (under 40) eligible for the Artists in Communities program program?
Are Indigenous Peoples eligible for the Artists in Communities program program?
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