PoMoArts Ceramic Artist in Residence (CAIR) Residency is a core part of our commitment to nurturing artistic excellence and fostering cultural development in the ceramic arts. Designed for emerging ceramic artists, this 6–7month residency combines on-site studio practice with mentorship, research, and community engagement, offering a flexible yet immersive experience tailored to today’s creative professionals.

Throughout the residency, emphasis is placed on hands-on making, artistic exploration, teaching, public engagement and includes a solo exhibition. PoMoArts ceramic studios are active, collaborative, and supportive environments that host a wide range of programs, including adult classes in wheel throwing, hand building, and sculpture, as well as youth programs and vibrant student studio sessions.

 

 Applicant Criteria:

• Applicants are required to have ceramics experience, which may be gained through post-secondary education or equivalent training and practice.
• Considered an emerging artist. We define emerging ceramic artists as those in the first few years of their professional development and not currently making their entire living from their artwork.
• There is no fee to submit an application.

The CAIR Receives: 

• Dedicated Studio Space
  Private studio with wheel, shelving, and workspace for up to 6 months, accessible during facility operating hours.
• Solo Exhibition
  A 6–7 week gallery exhibition of residency work, with curatorial support.
• Group Exhibition Opportunities
  Potential inclusion in select group shows.
• Support Structure
  Combination of in-studio practice and optional remote engagement for research, planning, and virtual talks.
• Mentorship & Professional Development
  Regular guidance from Ceramics and Exhibitions staff, including portfolio reviews and curatorial coaching.
• CAIR Artist Profile
  Featured profile on the PoMoArts website
• Teaching Experience
  Paid teaching/workshop opportunities may be offered after the residency, with optional mentorship in planning and strategies.
• Kiln Access
  Up to 2 glaze and 1 bisque firings per month (or equivalent), prioritized for exhibition work.
• Community Engagement
  Participation in Potters Studio sessions with students and connections with PoMoArts' active ceramic artist network. 

If you have any questions about the residency, please email ceramics@pomoarts.ca

 

Residency 1: December 1, 2025 – June 26, 2026

• Application Deadline: October 26, 2025, 11:59pm
• Recipient Notification: Recipients will be notified by
• Exhibition Dates: July 16 – August 30, 2026
• Exhibition Opening Reception: July 16, 2026, 6pm-8pm
• Gallery Installation: July 6–15, 2026 (Date and times TBD)
• Artwork Pick-Up: August 31 – September 2, 2026
• Monthly Progress Meetings: Virtual or in-person (dates TBD)*

Residency 2: June 1, 2026 – December 18, 2026

• Application Deadline: April 26, 2026, 11:59pm
• Recipient Notification: Recipients will be notified by
• Exhibition Dates: January-March 2027 (Dates TBC)
• Exhibition Opening Reception: January 2027 (Date TBC)
• Gallery Installation: January 2027 (Date TBC)
• Artwork Pick-Up: March, 2027 (Date TBC)
• Monthly Progress Meetings: Virtual or in-person (dates TBD)*

*Please note that attendance at these key dates and meetings is an important part of the residency, as they support both the exhibition development process and the mentorship provided. Before submitting your application, please confirm that you are available for all of the dates listed above.

Please provide two references who can speak to your artistic practice. Ideally, at least one should be a professional in the arts or an academic familiar with your educational program if applicable. Your references will be contacted to complete a brief recommendation form as part of the screening process.

Please include the following documents in your application:

• Cover Letter – This letter should highlight your artistic goals, and explain how participation in the Ceramic Artist in Residence program will support the development of your practice. Please also share relevant experience or interest in teaching if applicable. 
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – A summary of your professional, educational, and artistic experience.
• Artist Statement – A general overview of your artistic practice, process, and themes (250 words maximum).
• Artist Biography – A brief summary of your background. (125 words maximum).

Please note: The artist statement and biography may be used in promotional materials if your application is successful.

Artwork Images

Please upload up to 10 images of your artwork that reflect the style, medium, and scope of your artistic practice. Images should be of professional quality to facilitate evaluation.

Image Upload Requirements: 

• Please name each image file using the following format:
  LastName_TitleOfArtwork (e.g., Smith_RisingTide)
• If the work is part of a series or represents multiple installation views, please include numbering (e.g., Lee_QuietFields01, Lee_QuietFields02)
• After uploading images, the file names are listed below the image upload button. Input each file name into the image list below then fill in the corresponding fields. 

* After uploading images, your file image names are listed beneath the image upload button. Input each file name into the image list then fill in the corresponding fields. 

By signing above, you certify that all of the information you have provided is correct at the time of your application. Incorrect information could result in the withdrawal of the scholarship.