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

The CAIR program is a structured residency designed to support artists in developing a cohesive body of work over the course of six months. Participants will receive guidance through key stages of research, material testing, concept development, studio practice, and exhibition planning, with opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and community engagement as part of the residency experience.

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. As part of this dynamic studio community, the CAIR will possess the technical ceramics knowledge and studio experience required to work independently, support studio operations, and engage with students and studio users. 

 

 Applicant Criteria:

• Have a strong foundation in ceramics practice, gained through post-secondary education and/or equivalent training and experience.

• Be comfortable working independently in a shared studio environment and assisting with the day-to-day operations.

• Have sufficient technical knowledge to answer student questions, support studio users, monitor safe studio practices, and assist with routine studio maintenance and upkeep.

• Be considered an emerging artist. We define emerging ceramic artists as those in the first few years of their professional development and not currently earning their primary income from their artwork.

• There is no fee to submit an application.

The CAIR Receives: 

• Dedicated Studio Space
  Private studio with wheel, shelving, and workspace, accessible during facility operating hours.
• Gallery Exhibition
  A 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 and 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
  Access to kiln in a shared studio space to support production of work throughout residency.
• Community Engagement
  Opportunity to support studio sessions with students, participate in events, and build connections with PoMoArts' active ceramic artist network. 

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

Current Residency Opportunities: 

June 1, 2027 – December 17, 2027

• Application Deadline: March 28, 2027, 11:59pm
• Exhibition: Blackberry Winter Arts Market 2027
• Exhibition Dates: November 23 - December 21, 2027 
• Gallery Installation: November 2027 (Date TBC)
• Artwork Pick-Up: January, 2028 (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.

As part of your application, please submit a brief proposal (maximum 1 page) outlining the project you plan to develop during the residency, from the following exhibition opportunities:

Blackberry Winter Arts Market

Exhibition Period: November-December (4 weeks)

The artist will develop a cohesive collection of functional and/or sculptural ceramic works for sale at the Blackberry Winter Arts Market. This will include accessible, market-ready pieces, with potential for the creation of experimental works. Applicants are asked to describe their concept, the scope of work they intend to create, and how it will be presented within a thoughtfully curated display.

Solo Exhibition

Exhibition Period: August-October (10 weeks)

This residency culminates in a solo exhibition in the Canadian Pacific Gallery at PoMoArts. This opportunity is intended for artists seeking to develop a large-scale, conceptually driven body of work for exhibition. Applicants are asked to propose a thoughtful, critically-engaged concept reflecting strong artistic vision, with consideration given to the scope of work required to create a well-resolved exhibition within the residency timeline.

Click for more info about PoMoArts exhibitions

While applicant preferences will be considered, final placement will be determined by PoMoArts based on project suitability, scheduling, and program needs.

 

Please include the following documents in your application:

• Proposal Document (one page maximum)- Indicate the opportunity you are applying for (see above), along with a brief outline of your proposed concept and the artwork you intend to create if selected. Please include relevant details such as scope, estimated number of works, and how the project is achievable within 6 months. 
• 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 (250 words maximum) - A general overview of your artistic practice, process, and themes 
• Artist Biography (125 words maximum) – A brief summary of your background. 

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. 

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.

After submitting your proposal, you will be redirected to a confirmation page and will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive the email, please check your spam folder or contact us at submissions@pomoarts.ca