Organizer Information
Founded in 1955 by Charles Glass Greenshields in memory of his mother, the Foundation is one of the most prestigious and long-standing institutions dedicated to representational art. Based in Canada, it provides a vital lifeline to emerging artists worldwide, having supported over 2,000 creators from 80 countries.
Title & Description
The Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant.
This program exists to support young, representational artists during the formative years of their careers. Born out of the conviction that traditional artistic expression remains vital, the grant offers artists the "gift of time" to study, experiment, and defined their artistic voices without the immediate pressure of financial constraints.
Categories
Painting, Sculpture, Printmaking, and Drawing.
Eligibility
- Artist Type: Must be a student or an emerging artist in the process of launching a career.
- Art Style: Works must be representational or figurative.
- Age: Applicants must be between 18 and 41 years old at the time of their first application.
- Status: Grants are not intended for amateur, hobbyist, or well-established artists.
- Ineligible Work: Abstract art, installation art, public art, photography, digital imagery, animation, video, performance, and crafts are not eligible.
Program Benefits and Awards
- First Grant: CAD $17,000.
- Second & Third Grants: CAD $20,000 each.
- Lifetime Limit: An artist may be awarded a grant up to three times in their lifetime.
- Purpose: Funds may be used for tuition, studio rental, model wages, art materials, and travel/living expenses.
Fees
- Application Fee: None.
Application Requirements
- Portfolio: Six works plus an installation view of one of the works.
- Documentation: Artist statement, project description, and a cost estimation.
- Reference: A letter of recommendation from a referee.
- Proof: Proof of acceptance or enrollment in a qualifying school or residency (if applicable).
How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted through the Foundation's online application portal. Applications via email or physical mail are not accepted. All applicants must complete an Eligibility Questionnaire before beginning the process. Apply here.
Key Dates
- Cycle 1: Open Jan. 1 – Close Feb. 27, 2026 (Start date: April 1, 2026).
- Cycle 2: Open April 1 – Close May 15, 2026 (Start date: July 1, 2026).
- Cycle 3: Open July 1 – Close Aug. 28, 2026 (Start date: Oct. 1, 2026).
- Cycle 4: Open Oct. 1 – Close Nov. 20, 2026 (Start date: Feb. 15, 2027).
Location
Canada, West-Montreal (Global Eligibility).
Additional Details
Grants are awarded solely on the strength of the portfolio and application. Receiving a grant once does not guarantee future awards. Electronics or equipment intended for use beyond the project (e.g., laptops, cameras) are not eligible expenses.