Call Opens: February 18, 2026
Application Deadline: Sunday, March 8, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Fees: FREE – zero cost to apply and participate

Program Dates: April 20th to June 23rd
Workshop Times:  6:15 PM to 8:00 PM
Venue:  Virtual (Zoom)

The Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) is seeking applications from emerging to mid-career Brampton artists to participate in a three-month grant writing cohort program.

During this hands-on, collaborative learning program, you will become part of a peer cohort developing grant writing skills. You will receive support throughout the process to help you write a strong grant application. Specific themes and goals will be tackled each month, teaching you along the way how to systematically complete a grant application. You will be expected to complete assignments before the first session and between sessions in order to reach the goal of completing a grant application by the end of the program.

 

Program Schedule

April 20 – Introduction to Grant Writing (Canadian grant landscape and your projects)
May 18 – Foundations of Grant Writing (key questions, bio & CV, support materials, and budget)
June – One-On-One Sessions (60 minute individual Q&A and grant feedback)
June 22 and June 23 – Final One-On-One Sessions (30 minute individual Q&A and grant feedback)

 

Program Facilitator

Shaina Agbayani is a Tagalog transdisciplinary artist whose work is devoted to unraveling borders between art, life, ritual and ecology. Her work has been supported by organizations such as the Laidlaw Foundation, the Tides Foundation, the School for Social Entrepreneurs, the Toronto Arts Council, Ontario Arts Council, and the Canada Council for the Arts.

As co-founder of Greenhouse Theatre, she has curated programming merging ritual, art, land connection, and interdisciplinary creative practices across Turtle Island and in the archipelago known as the Philippines. As an author, she has been published in books such as Feel Ways, Home is the Body: 2SLGBTQIA+ FilipinX Femme, North of the 49th Parallel, and Countermap: A Poetics of Place as well as digital publications including Tilting, Re: Asian, and Briarpatch Magazine, with upcoming literary projects supported by the Ontario Arts Council.

 

Who Can Apply?

This program is open to all emerging to mid-career Brampton-based professional artists who have submitted fewer than 3 grants before, or have never submitted a grant. This is a non-discipline specific program and artists from all disciplines are encouraged to apply.

The Ontario Arts Council defines a professional artist or arts professional as someone who has developed skills through training or practice, is recognized by artists working in the same artistic tradition, has a history of public presentation or publication, seeks payment for their work and actively practices their art.

We recognize that due to systemic barriers within the broader arts community (e.g. limited mainstream presentation opportunities for artists from historically disadvantaged groups such as Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour, Deaf Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Persons Living with Mental Illness, 2SLGBTQIAP, and newcomer and refugee artists) that some flexibility may be required in interpreting eligibility criteria to take into account equivalent professional experience and contexts. Potential applicants from historically disadvantaged groups are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the program manager in advance of submitting an application.

 

Additional Eligibility Criteria:

• The applicant must have a residential address within the City of Brampton and must have been located in Brampton for a minimum of 12 months prior to the date of application.
• Artists who have never submitted a grant before or have made fewer than 3 grant application submissions in their career.
• Demonstrated commitment to their artistic practice in the long term, with at least 2 years of experience of demonstrated commitment to their practice.

 

Additional Information and Accessibility Support

If you have any questions about this call or require any assistance, accommodations or additional support in completing this application, please reach out to Katy Belshaw, Head of Programming, Brampton Arts Organization, katy@bramptonartsorg.ca.

 

Application Submission

Interested applicants are asked to complete the application form before Sunday, March 8th at 11:59 PM.

Apply Here

Please note that only applications submitted through the formal submission process will be accepted, unless otherwise previously arranged due to accessibility needs.

 

Notification

Applicants will be notified of the results by mid-April. Communication about the status of your submission will be through email.

Call Opens: February 26, 2026
Application Deadline: Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Fees: FREE – zero cost to apply

Program Dates: June to August, 2026
Program Venues:  Brampton parks (three different parks)
Program Budgets: $4950 CAD to $7,200 CAD (50% provided upon selection, 50% upon project completion)*
*payment includes any necessary costs or materials, and no further compensation will be made to the artist/s for costs associated with the program (+HST if applicable)

Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) Parkscapes is a seasonal, community-engaged public arts program that activates select Brampton area parks. The program supports local artists, collectives, and arts, culture and heritage organizations to create accessible, hands-on and collaborative arts experiences in Brampton area parks for the surrounding communities, resulting in temporary artworks and/or performances that invite residents to gather, reflect, and connect.

Parkscapes 2026 will take place across multiple park sites in Brampton and is supported by funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Hence, we are seeking distinct proposals for the three parks. You are required to select one of the three parks for your proposal. You can not submit a proposal for all three or two of the parks.

 

Information Session: March 4th from 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM

This online (Zoom) information session on Wednesday, March 4th from 12:00 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. will go over the program requirements for the call for proposals as well as the application process with BAO staff.

Register Here

 

2026 Parkscapes Theme: Routes in the Park

This year’s theme of “Routes in the Park” invites artists to explore movement, pathways, migration, journeys, routines, and shared routes through public spaces. Proposals could consider physical routes (walking paths, bike trails, etc.), cultural or personal journeys, or the ways communities move through and inhabit parks together for example.

 

Program and Park Sites

We are seeking project proposals that provide the surrounding community multiple opportunities to engage with art and ends with a final celebration, performance, installation, or gathering for the community.

Applicants must select one of these three sites for their proposal. You can not submit more than one proposal.

The proposal must meet the following criteria:

• Free and open to the general public
• Arts-based, hands-on and collaborative
• Accessible and inclusive to all ages and abilities
• Community engaged
• Unbiased and free of offensive, discriminatory, or hateful content and views
• To be delivered between June and August 2026

 

Site One – Eastbourne Park and Surrounding Area

Programming proposals must include:

• Rich, interconnected programming with two or more separate yet related events that tie into this year’s theme of “Routes in the Park”
• A final celebration, performance, installation, or gathering for the community.
• Programming that provides multiple opportunities to engage and participate in
• For a general, all-ages and multi-ethnic audience
• Includes one or more art forms such as theatre, dance, music, poetry, visual arts, craft, literature, media arts, and others
• Creation of a semi-permanent fence art installation with elements co-created with local artists and community members (See images of the fence below)
• Budget that includes payment to artist/s (fees), materials, equipment rental/s, insurance, and any other project expenses associated with the project for yourself and anyone else involved. Payment of professional artist fees (ex. CARFAC rates) is a requirement of this program.

Dates: June to August, 2026

Site One Budget Available:

• Up to $4,500 for artist payment (fee) for one or more individuals and insurance
• Up to $1,200 for supplies, materials and equipment rental

 

Site Two – Chinguacousy Park

Programming proposals must include:

• Rich, interconnected weekly programming held over the course of two months that tie into this year’s theme of “Routes in the Park” for a total of up to eight events.
• Weekly activations that are scheduled for either Thursday or Friday evenings from July to August, 2026
• A final celebration event featuring a temporary artwork and/or performance
• Programming that provides multiple opportunities to engage and participate in for the community
• For a general, all-ages and multi-ethnic audience
• Includes one or more art forms such as theatre, dance, music, poetry, visual arts, craft, literature, media arts, and others
• Budget that includes payment to artist/s (fees), materials, equipment rental/s, insurance, and any other project expenses associated with the project for yourself and anyone else involved. Payment of professional artist fees (ex. CARFAC rates) is a requirement of this program.

Dates: July to August, 2026

Site Two Budget Available:

• Up to $2,250 for artist payment (fee) for one or more individuals and insurance for four weeks
  OR
• Up to $4,500 for artist payment (fee) for one or more individuals and insurance for eight weeks
• Up to $1,500 for supplies and materials
• Up to $1,200 for equipment rentals

 

Site Three – Mount Pleasant Park, Loafers Lake, or Eldorado Park

Programming proposals must include:

• Rich, interconnected weekly programming held over the course of two months that tie into this year’s theme of “Routes in the Park” for a total of up to eight events.
• Weekly activations that are scheduled for either Thursday or Friday evenings from July to August, 2026
• A final celebration event featuring a temporary artwork and/or performance
• Programming that provides multiple opportunities to engage and participate in for the community
• For a general, all-ages and multi-ethnic audience
• Includes one or more art forms such as theatre, dance, music, poetry, visual arts, craft, literature, media arts, and others
• Budget that includes payment to artist/s (fees), materials, equipment rental/s, insurance, and any other project expenses associated with the project for yourself and anyone else involved. Payment of professional artist fees (ex. CARFAC rates) is a requirement of this program.

Dates: July to August, 2026

Site Three Budget Available:

• Up to $2,250 for artist payment (fee) for one or more individuals and insurance for four weeks
  OR
• Up to $4,500 for artist payment (fee) for one or more individuals and insurance for eight weeks
• Up to $1,500 for supplies and materials
• Up to $1,200 for equipment rentals

Programming proposals cannot be disrespectful or anti-other cultures, political or religious views, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, language, national or social origin, property, birth or other status such as disability, age, marital and family status, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation. Proposals should be void of any political or religious views.

 

Program Requirements and Rules

Artist Agreement – All successful applicant/s will receive and sign an Artist Agreement. The Agreement will detail the terms and conditions of the funding for the successful project proposal. The Agreement must be signed and sent to BAO before the start of the project.

Insurance – All successful applicant/s are required to have Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance for all public programming, with an inclusive limit of not less than $5 million (CAD) per occurrence. The policy should name BAO as additionally insured with a copy forwarded in advance of the beginning of the project to BAO staff. Higher inclusive limits may be required for certain projects. Please ensure you include CGL in your budget.

Vulnerable Sector Check – The successful applicant/s are required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) for any programming directly engaging with participants.

Social Insurance Number – The successful applicant/s must submit their Social Insurance Number/s. Individual recipients will receive a T4A for the funding amount.

Project Planning and Development – The successful applicant/s will be expected to fully develop their project proposals from April to June, 2026.

Project Funding – The successful applicant/s can only use the funding for the purposes outlined in the application and program proposal.

Project Timing – All projects must be completed within the dates specified in your application and program proposal.

Communication – The successful applicant/s are required to send BAO information on any public performances or events presented in the context of this project well in advance of the event date.

Acknowledgement – The successful applicant/s are required to acknowledge the support of BAO, Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) in all written materials related to the activities for the project. BAO, OTF and TRCA logos will be provided. In lieu of the logo, the recipient may use the phrase “produced as part of the Parkscapes: Routes in the Park program with the support of the Brampton Arts Organization, Ontario Trillium Foundation, and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.”

Close Out Report – The successful applicant/s are required to submit a final report on their project once completed. The final report will be due one month following the close-out of the project. The report will be provided for the program lead to fill out.

In addition to all the above conditions, BAO reserves the right to place other conditions on the release of the funding (such as confirmation of venue, programming, other sources of funding, etc.). Any specific conditions will be contained in the Artist Agreement.

 

Who Can Apply?

This program is open to all Brampton and GTA-based professional artists, not-for-profit arts and culture organizations or artist collectives operating on a not-for-profit basis. Priority will be given applicants who live, work, and have a strong connection to Brampton.

The Ontario Arts Council defines a professional artist or arts professional as someone who has developed skills through training or practice, is recognized by artists working in the same artistic tradition, has a history of public presentation or publication, seeks payment for their work and actively practices their art.

We recognize that due to systemic barriers within the broader arts and creative community (e.g. limited mainstream presentation opportunities for individuals from historically disadvantaged groups such as Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour, Deaf Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Persons Living with Mental Illness, 2SLGBTQIAP, and newcomer and refugee creatives) that some flexibility may be required in interpreting eligibility criteria to take into account equivalent professional experience and contexts. Potential applicants from historically disadvantaged groups are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the program manager in advance of submitting their application and proposal.

Please note, you may not apply as an individual and as a part of an organization or collective that is also applying to this call for proposals. Artist teams and collectives must choose a lead applicant, who can legally work in Canada and is not currently an undergraduate student.

 

Equity and Access

Priority will be given to applicants from historically disadvantaged communities, including those who identify as Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, Disabled, Deaf, Trans, Nonbinary, Queer, and those with intersecting identities.

 

Additional Accessibility Funding

Projects involving Deaf artists and artists with disabilities may apply for additional funding by completing the Accessibility Expenses section of the application and including the necessary information in their budget. This accessibility funding will provide up to a maximum of $2,000 towards accessibility costs for artists sustained during the project.

Accessibility costs can include but are not limited to

• ASL interpretation
• Audio description
• Closed captioning
• Communications assistants
• Attendant care (including helpers for Elders)
• Support workers and equipment rentals
• Other supports required to meet the artists’ accessibility needs

 

Selection Process and Criteria

Proposals will be chosen by the selection committee based on the following criteria:

Program Proposal (46%)

• Artistic merit of the proposed project
• Quality, clarity, and creativity of the proposed project
• Suitability of the proposed project for the selected park
• Feasibility of the proposed project scope and timeline
• Financial viability of the proposed project
• Alignment with the “Routes in the Park” theme
• Clear identification of the intended audience
• Quality of the experience the proposed project will provide to the participants and the benefits it will provide to the local community

 

Artistic and Facilitation Experience (36%)

• Experience facilitating arts-based or community-engaged programs
• Demonstrated artistic practice
• Ability to work collaboratively with community participants
• Ability of the applicant to carry out the proposed project

 

Community Engagement and Values (18%)

• Connection to Brampton and the communities surrounding the park
• Understanding of the proposed site and surrounding neighbourhood
• Alignment with BAO’s mission and values
• Lived experience and/or demonstrated commitment to equity and access

 

Selection Committee

• Brampton Arts Organization Staff
• Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Staff
• Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) Staff
• Local Artist/s
• Community Member/s

 

Payment

Selected applicant/s for this program will be paid 50% upon selection and 50% upon project completion (+HST if applicable). The payment includes any necessary costs or materials, and no further compensation will be made to the artist/s for costs associated with participating and/or running the selected project.

 

Successful Applicants and Proposals

The successful proposal leader/s will work with BAO staff to finalize details of their project, including signing an Artist Agreement, meeting insurance requirements, completing event descriptions, and

• Commit to engaging multigenerational community members in creative experiences in Brampton park
• Deliver the selected project within the program’s proposed timeline and budget
• Provide regular updates to BAO staff
• Document your project with written and visual records
• Be available to speak with the media
• Attend a debriefing session and write a close out report at the end of the program.

 

The successful applicant is required to actively promote their programming by:

• Working with BAO staff to create and follow a promotion plan
• Sharing information through their personal and community networks
• Promotes through dedicated and timely social media posts on their personal or group accounts
• Acknowledge BAO, OTA, and TRCA support in all related marketing materials and at activities

 

Additional Information and Accessibility Support

If you have any questions about this call or require any assistance, accommodations or additional support in completing this application, please reach out at least one week prior to the application deadline to Katy Belshaw, Head of Programming, Brampton Arts Organization, katy@bramptonartsorg.ca.

 

Submission

Applicants are asked to complete the submission form before Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

Apply Here

Please note that only applications submitted through the formal submission process will be accepted, unless otherwise previously arranged due to accessibility needs. You will receive a confirmation email when your application is submitted. Check your spam/junk mail folder if it doesn’t arrive in your inbox.

 

Notification

Applicants will be notified of their application status within two calendar months of submission. Communication about the status of your application will be through email.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key dates for this program?

• Call Opens: February 26, 2026
• Application Deadline: March 15, 2026
• Applicants Notified: April 2026
• Planning and Development of Programming: April to June 2026
• Program Delivery: June to August 2026

 

Are there requirements and guidelines for paying artists?
Successful applicant/s are required to pay artists’ for their time and work in the form of a fee. You should follow arts sector guidelines or at a minimum, living wage benchmarks such as

• CARFAC (visual arts)
• Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists
• Canadian Actors Equity – Independent Theatre Agreement
• Canadian Federation of Musicians
• Independent Media Arts Alliance (IMAA)
• Ontario Living Wage as a minimum standard for artists/arts workers’ salaries and fees of $26 per hour in 2024

 

What if my project changes?
Program funding may be used only for the purposes outlined in your application and program proposal. Changes to the scale, activities and timeframe of the project must be reported immediately to BAO. In such cases, BAO may require full or partial repayment of the funding. Changes to project dates must be reported to the Program Manager as well.

 

What do I do when I have completed my project?
Participants are required to submit a final report on their project. The final report will be due one month following the close-out of the project. The Program Manager will provide the report template to you.

 

Call Opens: March 3, 2026
Application Deadline: Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM
Fees: FREE – zero cost to apply

Honorarium: $5,000 Canadian (+HST if applicable)
Value Bank: Up to $1,500 Canadian for Canon Print Shop and Frame Lab

Residency Dates: April 13 to July 31, 2026
Residency Venue:  Canon Canada Headquarters, 8000 Mississauga Rd, Brampton, ON L6Y 5Z7

The Canon Canada and Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) Photographer in Residence is a pilot program developed by BAO with Canon Canada that will provide a Brampton-based professional photographer an honorarium of $5,000, up to $1,500 in value bank to be used at the Canon Print Shop and Frame Lab, working space at Canon Canada Headquarters and the use of a professional camera kit for the duration of the residency from April 13 to July 31, 2026.

The successful applicant will have access to a free wheelchair accessible workspace at Canon Canada Headquarters on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday’s from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in addition to

• Value Bank spend of up to $1,500 for the Canon Print Shop & Frame Lab (excluding production of final deliverables)
• Rental Professional Camera Kit:
  • EOS R6 Mark II [MSRP $3,000]
  • RF 24-105 F4 L IS USM [MSRP $1,900]

Please note that the successful applicant will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with Canon Canada, as the role may involve access to information or materials that are not yet public.

 

What is Expected of the Canon Canada + BAO Photographer in Residence?

By the conclusion of this residency on July 31st, the selected photographer will have been responsible for delivery the following:

• One piece of free public programming (to be developed in collaboration with BAO and Canon Canada Staff such as an artist talk).
• Two event hosting opportunities including one gallery showcase.
• A gallery of 10 high resolution images to be printed and displayed in the Canon Canada offices for no less than 6 months, up to 1 year.
  • Canon may choose to share these images on their website and social media and will retain the rights and copyright to these specific images.
• Two social media posts per month (eight total) sharing behind the scenes content, tagging both the Brampton Arts Organization and Canon Canada.
• One article/blog featuring highlights of the residency term, to be posted on Canon.ca in perpetuity.

 

Additional Conditions

• All photography submitted as deliverables must be taken using ONLY Canon photography equipment.
• All images submitted must be free from elicit activities, explicit or suggestive subject matter, inflammatory content or statements, political or religious views.
• All individuals captured must provide consent, for those under the age of majority, consent must be provided by a parent or guardian.
• Complete the residency and create the deliverables by July 31st and within budget.
• Provide regular progress updates to BAO and Canon Canada staff.
• Document your time in the residency with written and visual records.
• Be available to speak with the media.
• Attend a debriefing session and write a close out report at the end of the residency.

 

Skill Requirements

Essential Technical Skills

• Strong technical skills in digital photography (DSLR or mirrorless)
• A developed portfolio showing a range of subjects and styles
• Experience with photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop)
• Understanding of composition, light, and visual storytelling
• Ability to shoot in a variety of environments (indoor, outdoor, natural light, etc.)
• Good file management, image organization, and deadline management

 

Residency Skills

• Ability to develop a thematic body of work over the course of the residency
• Interest in exploring community stories, identity, place, or social themes
• Willingness to share ideas through an exhibition, digital showcase, or photo zine
• Comfortable interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups
• Experience leading or co-facilitating workshops, artist talks, or community sessions (or openness to learning)
• Respectful and thoughtful when photographing people and community spaces
• Comfortable receiving feedback and working with a project coordinator or arts team

Bonus Skills

• Social media or storytelling skills to share the residency journey
• Knowledge of local communities or cultural contexts
• Experience with photo book or zine-making, collage, or mixed media (if part of project goals)
• Basic video or sound documentation skills

 

Residency Requirements and Rules

Residency Work Plan – The successful applicant must provide a month-by-month breakdown that includes planned studio days (Mon/Wed/Thu), event dates, social media posts, creation of the ten required images, gallery showcase, and additional deliverables previously outlined above.

Budget – proposed budget should include all artist fees, materials, equipment rental, insurance, and any other expenses associated with the residency. Payment of professional artist fees is a requirement of this program and should follow arts sector guidelines or at a minimum, living wage benchmarks such as
CARFAC (visual arts)
Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists
Canadian Actors Equity – Independent Theatre Agreement
Canadian Federation of Musicians
Independent Media Arts Alliance (IMAA)
Ontario Living Wage as a minimum standard for artists/arts workers’ salaries and fees of $26 per hour in 2024

Project Funding – The honorarium for this residency may only be used for the purposes outlined in the residency application.

Project Timing – All residency activities and deliverables must be completed by July 31, 2026.

Artist Agreement – The successful applicant will receive and sign an Artist Agreement. The Agreement will detail the terms and conditions of the funding for the residency. The Agreement must be signed and sent to BAO before the start of the residency.

Insurance – The successful applicant is required to have Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance for onsite programming, with an inclusive limit of not less than $5 million (CAD) per occurrence. The policy should name BAO and Canon Canada employees as additionally insured with a copy forwarded in advance of the beginning of the residency. Higher inclusive limits may be required for certain projects. Please ensure you include CGL in your budget.

Vulnerable Sector Check – The successful applicant is required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) for any programming directly engaging with participants.

Social Insurance Number – The successful applicant must submit their Social Insurance Number/s. You will receive a T4A for the funding amount.

Communication – The successful applicant is required to send BAO information on any public performances or events presented in the context of this residency well in advance of the event date.

Acknowledgement – The successful applicant is required to acknowledge the support of BAO and Canon Canada in all written materials related to the residency. The Canon Canada logo may not be used without explicit approval and permission from Canon Canada. In lieu of the logo, the recipient may use the phrase “produced with the support of the Brampton Arts Organization and Canon Canada.”

Public Health Restrictions – The successful applicant must follow public health restrictions that may be in place when the residency occurs.

Close Out Report – The successful applicant is required to submit a final report on their residency once completed. The final report will be due one month following the end of the residency. The report template will be provided to the photographer to fill out.

In addition to all the above conditions, BAO reserves the right to place other conditions on the release of the funding (such as confirmation of venue, programming, other sources of funding, etc.). Any specific conditions will be contained in the Artist Agreement.

 

Who Can Apply?

This program is open to all Brampton-based professional photographers.

The Ontario Arts Council defines a professional artist or arts professional as someone who has developed skills through training or practice, is recognized by artists working in the same artistic tradition, has a history of public presentation or publication, seeks payment for their work and actively practices their art.

We recognize that due to systemic barriers within the broader creative community (e.g. limited mainstream presentation opportunities for individuals from historically disadvantaged groups such as Black, Indigenous, Person of Colour, Deaf Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Persons Living with Mental Illness, 2SLGBTQIAP, and newcomer and refugee creatives) that some flexibility may be required in interpreting eligibility criteria to take into account equivalent professional experience and contexts. Potential applicants from historically disadvantaged groups are encouraged to discuss their eligibility with the program manager in advance of applying.

We welcome applications from self-taught photographers, emerging artists, or those with non-traditional creative paths. You do not need to have post-secondary education in photography or the arts.

 

Eligibility Criteria:

• The applicant must have a residential address in the City of Brampton and must have been in Brampton for a minimum of 12 months prior to the date of the application.
• The applicant must be legally able to work in Canada.
• The applicant must be able to pass a vulnerable sector check.
• The applicant cannot be currently enrolled in an undergraduate program.

 

Additional Accessibility Funding

Projects involving Deaf artists and artists with disabilities may apply for additional funding by completing the Accessibility Expenses section of the application and including the necessary information in their budget. This accessibility funding will provide up to a maximum of $2,000 towards accessibility costs for artists sustained during the project.

Accessibility costs can include but are not limited to

• ASL interpretation
• Audio description
• Closed captioning
• Communications assistants
• Attendant care (including helpers for Elders)
• Support workers and equipment rentals
• Other supports required to meet the artists’ accessibility needs

 

Selection Process and Criteria

A proposal will be chosen based on artistic merit, impact, and viability as expressed in the application. The following criteria will be assessed:

• Artistic merit of the proposed residency
• Suitability of the proposed residency for the space and resources available at Canon Canada
• Quality of the experience the proposed residency will provide to Canon Canada
• Benefits the proposed residency will provide to the local community
• Ability of the applicant to carry out the proposed residency
• Financial viability of the proposed residency

Priority will be given to applicants from historically disadvantaged communities, including those who identify as Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, Disabled, Deaf, Trans, Nonbinary, Queer, and those with intersecting identities.

Residency proposals cannot be disrespectful or anti-other cultures, political or religious views, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, language, national or social origin, property, birth or other status such as disability, age, marital and family status, health status, place of residence, economic and social situation. Proposals should be void of any political or religious views.

 

Selection Committee

• Brampton Arts Organization Staff
• Canon Canada Staff
• Local Artist/s

 

Payment

The selected applicant for this residency will be paid $5000.00 Canadian dollars (+HST if applicable). The payment includes any necessary costs or materials, and no further compensation will be made to the photographer for costs associated with participating in this residency.

 

Additional Information and Accessibility Support

If you have any questions about this call or require any assistance, accommodations or additional support in completing this application, please reach out at least one week prior to the application deadline to Katy Belshaw, Head of Programming, Brampton Arts Organization, katy@bramptonartsorg.ca.

 

Apply Here

Photographers are asked to complete the application form before Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM.

Apply Here

Please note that only applications submitted through the formal submission process will be accepted, unless otherwise previously arranged due to accessibility needs. You will receive a confirmation email when your application is submitted. Check your spam/junk mail folder if it doesn’t arrive in your inbox.

 

Notification

Applicants will be notified of their application status within one calendar month of submission. Communication about the status of your application will be through email.

Call Opens: Thursday, March 5, 2026
Application Deadline: Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Fees: FREE – zero cost to apply and participate (with an optional paid table upgrade of $10.00)

Market Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026
Market Time: 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Market Venue:  Springdale Library Branch, 10705 Bramalea Rd, Brampton, ON L6R 0C1

Table Size: 6 ft folding tables and 2 chairs per full table
Available Tables: 18–36 Adult Vendors (dependent on half-table selection) and 8 Youth Vendors (half-tables)

The Brampton Arts Organization (BAO) will host its fifth annual Brampton Summer Artist Market at the Brampton Library’s Springdale Branch on Sunday, July 19th from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This market provides a unique opportunity for Brampton-based artists and creative entrepreneurs of all ages to showcase and sell their work, grow their audience, and connect with the community. Returning this year is our youth vendor section, which will highlight the work of eight young Brampton creative entrepreneurs under the age of 18.

We are seeking a wide variety of creative and artistic disciplines to vend items such as paintings, prints, posters, editioned works, drawings, photographic prints, crafts, textiles, ceramics, zines, comics, handmade jewellery, sculptures, and more. For the youth artists, we are seeking emerging creatives with an entrepreneurial spirit who are excited to share and sell their original creations in a welcoming, professional market environment.

We also welcome applications from local arts, culture and heritage organizations who are looking to connect with the Brampton creative community.

 

New for 2026 – Updated Table Structure

This year, we are introducing a new flexible table model designed to support both established and emerging vendors while allowing us to increase the number of vendors able to participate in the market. All vendors, adult and youth will be provided with a free half-table. Adult vendors have the option of upgrading to a full table by making a minimum $10 one-time donation to support BAO’s programming.

Donations will be collected after acceptance letters are sent. We ask that applicants indicate on their application whether or not they intend to upgrade to a full table. This new structure aims to increase the number of vendors accepted while helping to sustain the resources that make the market possible.

 

Adult Vendors may apply for either:

• Half Table (3 ft shared table) – Ideal for emerging artists, vendors with smaller inventories, or those who wish to share space.
• Full Table (6 ft) – Recommended for vendors with larger bodies of work or display needs. Requires a $10.00 donation.

 

Youth Vendors (18 and under) will be featured in a dedicated section and will each receive a half table (3 ft shared table). This structure is designed to:

• Lower the financial and logistical barriers for young creatives
• Encourage first-time market participation
• Create a supportive, community-oriented youth showcase
• Allow more young artists to participate in the market

The final number of adult vendors (18–36) will depend on the number of full and half-tables confirmed after acceptance. Vendors will be asked to confirm their donation at the receipt of their acceptance letter.

 

Important Application Criteria

• Beauty, bath,  wellness, and food products will NOT be accepted.
• Manufactured and bulk-produced items are prohibited
• All artwork must be original and human-created. The sale and display of work created (in part or in full) by generative AI technologies is prohibited at this market.
• If work copies, reproduces, imitates or otherwise infringes on someone else’s copyrighted material it will not be considered.
• Vendors are expected to arrive by 9:00 a.m. to set up on the market day.
• Vendors must be on-site from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on market day.
• The market will be following Peel Public Health guidelines related to COVID-19 and vendors will be required to adhere to safety measures.

 

Selection Criteria

This call prioritizes original artwork and handmade goods, editioned works, and artwork and ephemera related to your creative and artistic practice, over bulk-produced, manufactured items. Co-applications (two vendors per one table) are welcome as well as applications from collectives. Arts organizations and not-for-profits are also encouraged to apply and are not required to sell artworks.

Additionally, the selection committee will review applications for:

• Quality of work
• Originality
• Vendors relationship and connection to Brampton and Peel Region
• Overall suitability for the market

Priority will be given to applicants who belong to equity-deserving groups, including those who identify as Indigenous, Black, People of Colour, 2SLGBTQIAP, Deaf, Disabled and intersections of those identities.

Submissions must consist of original, human-created artwork. Works generated, assisted, or altered by AI image-generation tools will be disqualified.

 

Selection Committee

• Brampton Arts Organization Staff
• Craft Ontario Representative
• Three Brampton Artists

 

Additional Information and Accessibility Support

If you have any questions about this call or require any assistance, accommodations or additional support in completing this application, please email the Vendor Coordinator, Bianca Delmar at delmar0156@gmail.com at least one week in advance of the application deadline.

 

Application Submission

Interested applicants are asked to complete the application form by Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

Apply Here

Please note that only applications submitted through the formal submission process will be accepted, unless otherwise previously arranged due to accessibility needs.

 

Notification

Applicants will be notified of their application status the week of April 13th. Communication about the status of your application will be through email.

 

Important Dates:

• March 5 – Call to vendors opens
• March 22 – Call to vendors closes
• Week of April 13 – Vendors notified of application status
• April 27 – Vendors must confirm acceptance
• June – Public marketing campaign of market and vendors begins
• July 19 – Brampton Summer Artist Market

 

Youth Vendor Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply?
Youth vendors must be:

• Brampton residents
• Under 18 years of age
• Have existing artworks and creative products and the ability to create more for the market
• Have a parent or guardian who will co-sign their application and accompany them at the market

 

What does BAO provide?

BAO will provide you:

• Half a table (3 ft) and a chair
• Marketing support to promote your participation
• Professional development support through online training prior to the market

 

What do I need to bring?
In addition to your artworks and creative products, you must bring your own tablecloth, table displays, and cash/card payment system.

Does an adult parent/guardian need to join me at my table?
Yes, parent/guardian attendance is required as BAO will not be providing supervision. Having an adult sell or manage your booth throughout the day is helpful too!

 

Can I apply with a sibling or friend?
Yes, you are welcome to share a table with up to 2 additional artists as long as they are also youth artists (ages 18 or younger) and living in Brampton. When applying, select one lead artist to complete the form with a parent/guardian and list the names of the other artists who will be joining you.

 

Do I need to bring my own cash box or credit/debit sales machine?
Yes, all vendors, including youth vendors, are required to bring their own cash box or point of sale system. BAO is unable to provide cash, change, or process card payments of any kind. If you are planning to bring cash, it’s a good idea to price your artworks in even amounts to help manage your float and be sure to bring lots of change in small denominations ($1, $2, $5, $10).

 

If you have any questions about this call or require any assistance, accommodations or additional support in completing this application, please email the Vendor Coordinator (Bianca Delmar) at delmar0156@gmail.com at least one week in advance of the application deadline.

Call Opens: March 10, 2026
Fees: FREE – zero cost to apply

Check back later for the details, requirements and application form.

Call Opens: April 2026
Fees: FREE – zero cost to apply

Check back later for the details, requirements and application form.