OCAD U × Critical Distance Projections 2027: C$690 Exhibition Fees for Emerging Moving-Image Artists
A paid Toronto opportunity for moving-image work
OCAD University's RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers and Critical Distance Centre for Curators (CDCC) have launched a 2027 Projections Program artist call. Four to five selected emerging artists will each receive a C$690 exhibition fee for work displayed through a single-channel projection screening at CDCC in March 2027.
The organisers seek existing moving-image or lens-based work rather than pitches for an entirely new production. Work involving video, photography, digitally presented images and related media may be relevant. Moving-image practices are prioritised, but digitised still images of other artworks can be considered.
The eligibility is restricted to the OCAD U community
This is not a general international open call. Eligible applicants must be current OCAD U undergraduate students with at least 15 completed credits who expect to graduate in 2027, current OCAD U Master's students, or alumni who graduated in 2026.
Collectives are eligible only when every member meets one of these OCAD U conditions, and a collective receives one exhibition fee rather than C$690 per person. The organisers say they particularly encourage neurodivergent members of the community to apply and may prioritise those without a previous Career Launcher award.
Technical format and material to prepare
The projection format is 1920 × 1080 pixels, with moving video or still images, with or without sound. Successful artists must supply a suitable high-resolution digital file by January 2027 and coordinate with the curator ahead of the March presentation.
Applications require one PDF containing contact details, a current CV, website or social-media address, an artist statement or biography of no more than 150 words, and a 100-word explanation of how the proposed work operates in a projected exhibition. Applicants may include links to one to three existing videos or JPG images with identifying information such as title, year, medium and duration.
Deadline, selection and fee
The application deadline is Friday, 30 October 2026, at 12:00 noon Eastern Time. The partners plan to connect artists with the selected curator in November 2026, while finished files are due in January 2027. Exhibition presentation is scheduled for March 2027 in Toronto.
The C$690 is an exhibition fee. The university announcement does not promise travel coverage or a production grant on top of that amount, so candidates should not assume additional expenses are funded.
Application and official source
The OCAD U notice links directly to the application form and further Career Launcher details. Review the exact instructions and eligibility before submitting: https://www.ocadu.ca/news/2027-critical-distance-centre-curators-projections-program-call-artists
Details sourced from OCAD University's public 2027 Projections Program announcement accessed 18 October 2026. Confirm final requirements and any updates with the organisers.