Founded:
2025
Language(s):
English
Duration:
1-4 weeks
June 1–26, 2026

Entrance where applicable for gallery and museum visits as a part of the program.

With accommodation: $7,150 Early Bird | $7,450 Regular
Without accommodation (local/ alternative arrangements): $4,300 Early Bird | $4,600 Regular
3-month payment plan available.

Application guidelines:

1. Application Form: Applications for this program will be submitted through the website https://apply.ocadu.ca/register/thirdspace
After submitting, you will receive an email prompting you to submit your portfolio through Slideroom, where you will provide the following:

2. Written Statement of Intent: We want to learn more about you, your interests, and your motivations. In maximum 250 words per question, please provide a thoughtful response. Be concise, reflective, and let your unique perspective shine!
Why are you interested in participating in the THIRDSPACE: OCAD U Emerging Artist Summer Residency? How do you connect with this year's theme Staging the Unseen?

What specific goals do you hope to achieve or experiences are you seeking during the program?How do you envision this opportunity shaping or advancing your artistic practice?

3. Portfolio: Include 5–12 examples of your work that showcase your skills and creativity. Your portfolio should provide a well-rounded representation of your practice. Ensure the pieces connect meaningfully with the themes and ideas discussed in your written statement. If you include time-based media, keep the total duration under 5 minutes. For longer media pieces, consider reducing the total number of items in your portfolio to maintain balance and focus.

Applicants should expect a response to their complete application within one month of application deadline (Early Bird deadline: February 2, 2026. Deadline: April 2, 2026).

Application deadline:
Specific date
Deadline:
,
February 14th, 2025 (early bird rate) and final deadline May 13th, 2025
Open call:
no
AIR tags:
production
Update my listing
If you see an error or omission on this page, please let us know by filling out the update form.

THIRDSPACE: Emerging Artist Summer Intensive Program

THIRDSPACE: Emerging Artist Summer Intensive Program

third space
Description

THIRDSPACE is a month-long, in-person residency at OCAD University for interdisciplinary emerging artists. The program supports the development of new work through studio access, workshops, mentorship, and peer exchange, culminating in a public exhibition at the OCAD U Graduate Gallery.

The 2026 residency is led by artist and mentor-in-residence Erdem Taşdelen, an internationally recognized artist known for his thoughtful, generous, and dialogue-driven approach to mentorship. Participants can expect supportive feedback, open conversation, and guidance tailored to their individual practices.

Residency Theme: Staging the Unseen
Artists are invited to explore storytelling beyond convention using text, image, sound, and video. The residency encourages narrative as world-building—challenging dominant stories, revealing hidden perspectives, and opening space for new possibilities.

What’s Included

One month of dedicated studio access

Technical and conceptual workshops

Mentor-led critiques and discussions

Guest talks, readings, and field trips

Final public exhibition at OCAD University

Eligibility
Open to visual artists and designers who are current students, recent graduates, early-career artists, or practicing artists exploring new directions. Equivalent experience through independent practice or cultural knowledge is welcome.

Outcome

In this residency, you will:
Develop Technical and Conceptual Skills: Participants will advance their technical skills and deepen their conceptual understanding through guided practice, discussion, and field trips to local cultural spaces, culminating in the production of new work that reflects their unique artistic voice.
Expand Professional Networks and Collaborative Practices: Participants will build professional connections within the art community, with potential to engage in collaborative projects and networking opportunities that foster relationships with peers, mentors, and industry professionals.
Strengthen Artistic Practice through Reflection and Experimentation: Participants will critically reflect on their creative processes, exploring new techniques, mediums, and approaches that challenge and expand their current artistic practice.

Accommodation Information

They have housing partners for those needing assistance in securing a month rental stay.

Studio Information

The program is housed at OCAD University, with a shared open studio workspace. Depending on the projects, access to specialized studios can be arranged.

Contact information
Email
mwaxer [at] ocadu.ca
Website
https://apply.ocadu.ca/register/?id=b6689731-b8de-4083-851c-a13e19bf4200