Organizer Information:

The Friends of Medalta Society operates Medalta, an innovative museum, contemporary ceramic arts facility, and community hub located in the scenic Historic Clay District of Medicine Hat.

Title & Description:

Applications are open for the Artists in Residence Program.

This internationally renowned program attracts ceramic artists to work in a community that validates risk and nurtures creativity. The residency provides intensive, uninterrupted studio access to explore new aspects of practice, develop material research, and expand the field of contemporary ceramics.

Applicants can choose from four formats:

  • Year-Long: 11 months (September–July), culminating in a solo exhibition in the Yuill Family Gallery.
  • Gwen Strojich Fellowship: A 1-month fully funded fellowship for mid-career artists.
  • FLEX: A flexible residency duration of 2 to 8 months.
  • One-Month: A fast-paced, 4-week residency.

Category:

Ceramics.

Eligibility:

  • Who: Self-taught, emerging, mid-career, and established artists, potters, and makers from around the world.
  • Experience: A base understanding of ceramics is preferred, but this can be through self-taught experience, formal training, or other approaches.

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Workspace: 24/7 access to fully equipped semi-private studios (each bordered by three walls and equipped with a 4’x8’ worktable, shelving, and a ware-cart).
  • Facilities: Access to Gas, Salt, Soda, Wood, and Raku kilns, plus support from an expert Studio Technician.
  • Funded Fellowship (Gwen Strojich ONLY): Studio rent and lodging costs are completely covered, plus the artist receives a $1,000 stipend for travel or other fees.
  • Other Residencies: Artists in the Year-Long, FLEX, and One-Month programs are responsible for their own material, firing, and accommodation costs.

Application Fee & Program Costs:

  • Accommodation: Optional off-site housing is available at the BMO Artist Lodge (communal living space with private bedrooms, located a 10-minute walk from the studio). Artists are also welcome to find their own off-site housing.

Application Requirements:

Submit the application as a single PDF file. The required proposal letter (max 500 words) should clearly outline your interests, goals, specific projects, or research you want to complete during your time at Medalta. (Note: File-sharing services are not accepted).

How to Apply?

Email your single PDF application directly to residencies@medalta.org.

Key Dates:

  • April 15 Deadline: Accepts ALL residency types (Year-Long, Fellowship, FLEX, One-Month).
  • September 15 Deadline: Accepts ONLY FLEX and One-Month applications.
  • Notification: Applicants will hear back 3 to 4 weeks after the deadline.

Location:

Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada.

Contact Information:

Email: residencies@medalta.org

Website: Medalta Residency Info