The Okotoks Arts Council is excited to launch a brand new program called the Sheep River Artist in Residence. This new program invites artists of any field – writers, historians, painters, sculptors, sound artists, performers, videographers, etc. – to apply for this unique opportunity in the stunning community of Okotoks, Alberta.
"Supporting an artist to create a body of work in a community has a ripple effect, on the individual, fellow artists and the residents who engage with their creative process,” said Russell Thomas, President, Okotoks Arts Council. "We are excited to work with two great community partners to make this possible."
The Artist in Residence program has been developed to encourage established or emerging artists. The program is being hosted by the Okotoks Arts Council and will be produced in partnership with the Okotoks Public Library and the Town of Okotoks.
“Okotoks Town Council has prioritized a focus on Arts and Culture as economic drivers of our community. This initiative helps do that by revealing the importance of the arts to Okotoks,” says Jeff Greene, Director of Community Growth and Investment.
The program will take place for four weeks during the month of September, which falls during Alberta Culture Days along with Month of the Artist. Throughout the course of the program the selected artist will engage with the community through multiple events, hold office hours at the Library to work with and mentor other artists, and visit schools to share about their work.
“Art plays a crucial role in the life of any community, providing a means of expression and communication that goes beyond language and cultural barriers,” said Sarah Gillie, Director of the Okotoks Public Library. “The Library is thrilled to be part of this new and exciting program that is sure to inspire creativity, innovation, and imagination among community members of all ages.”
Online applications will be available to artists until May 14, 2023 and the selected artist will be informed of the jury’s decision by the end of May.