Call for Artists: Featured Speakers
ArtistSpeak*
Submission deadline: February 15, 2026
ArtistSpeak* is now accepting submissions from artists interested in being featured speakers for our 2026 season.
About ArtistSpeak*
ArtistSpeak* is a Calgary-based participatory arts series that brings artists and community together through conversation, performance, and collective craft. Each gathering centres on a theme and invites artists to reflect on how creativity intersects with lived experience, social issues and the world around us. Events are intimate, accessible and rooted in care, curiosity and connection.
Our mission is to create spaces where artists can speak honestly about their creative practices, share work in progress or performance, and engage in meaningful dialogue with audiences—while recognizing creativity as a vital tool for personal, collective and cultural well-being.
Dates and Venues:
March 12: A.I. at Trico Changemakers Studio, MRU
May 28: Social Media at Congress Coffee
October 1: Parenthood at Congress Coffee
November 26: Environment at Trico Changemakers Studio, MRU
Who Should Apply:
- We welcome applications from artists working across disciplines, including but not limited to music, theatre, dance, writing, visual art, craft, interdisciplinary and community-based creative practices.
- We are especially interested in artists whose work (past, present, or upcoming), engages thoughtfully with the listed themes and who are excited to share, listen and be in conversation with others.
What Participation Involves:
- All featured artists will receive a paid honorarium for their participation
- Be featured as a speaker and/or performer during the event
- Attend the event in person, including the full program
- Provide a short artist bio and headshot for promotional use
- Respond to basic email coordination with ArtistSpeak* staff
Commitment to Inclusion, Diversity & Accessibility
ArtistSpeak* is committed to creating welcoming, accessible spaces that centre diverse voices and lived experiences. We actively encourage artists of all backgrounds, identities and abilities to apply, including those from historically underrepresented communities.
We recognize that creativity, insight and lived experience do not follow a single path. If this opportunity resonates with you, we encourage you to apply—even if your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every detail.
Accommodation requests are welcome at any stage of the application process. Please let us know how we can best support your participation.
If you have any questions about the application process or ArtistSpeak*, please email artistspeakyyc@gmail.com.
Submit your application to: artistspeakyyc.com/call-for-artists.
We’re grateful for your interest and look forward to learning more about your work!
