Support Festival 2028: Open Call for Artworks (Smartwear Revolution)

About this call

Co-Designing a Smartwear Revolution, a six-year research project at the University of Alberta developing assistive "smart" garments, seeks Expressions of Interest for artworks, fashion creations and performances for a festival on the theme of SUPPORT in May 2028, hosted across University of Alberta venues in Edmonton. The festival plans an exhibition, live performances, a live dress or fashion event with 3 to 4 capsule collections, and is open to other formats. All activities are hybrid, so works must be able to exist both in person and online. Existing works, works in progress and new works are all welcome, and applicants do not need to use the project's technology. Featured artists receive CARFAC, CADA or CAEA recommended fees, with installation and shipping covered.

Who can apply

• International applicants
• Medium: Textile / Performance / Installation / New Media / Mixed Media
• Free entry
• Open to local, national and international artists, performers, designers and artist-researchers of all abilities, with no restrictions in terms of nationality, geographical location, age, gender, sexuality, religion, or physical and intellectual disability; student artists, collaborators, collectives and organizations may apply, though honoraria may differ. Particular interest in applicants with lived or professional experience related to disability, chronic illness, muscular and skeletal weakness, aging, caregiving, rehabilitation, mobility devices and assistive technology, and healthcare. Applicants should be able to demonstrate past experience in artmaking, design or performance, and will be asked to show creative experience relevant to their EOI. Stage 1 EOI (by December 15, 2026): application form, artist statement (250 to 500 words), artist biography (250 to 500 words) or short CV, 8 to 10 work samples, project proposal (250 to 500 words); audio or video submissions accepted. EOIs can also be sent by email to adwg@ualberta.ca; the Google Form requires signing in to a Google account. If English or French is not your first language, or you would prefer to apply in another language, contact adwg@ualberta.ca before the deadline to discuss options. One festival proposal per applicant (plus one residency proposal); you may also apply individually and be part of a collective application. Works must be able to exist both in person and online. Stage 1 results by January 15, 2027; stage 2 is a conversation with the team, then a full application with a detailed description, timeline and budget, due February 15, 2027, with results on March 15, 2027 (a CAD 50 honorarium or gift card for an existing work, CAD 100 for a new artwork, fashion design or performance). No application fee. Selected artists sign a contract, must register as University of Alberta suppliers (currently at least 2 months) and submit invoices, and are expected to supply artist statements and images of work in progress and be open to contributing to the festival website and catalogue. International payments have 15% tax deducted automatically; a tax waiver can be applied for.