Call for Applications: Barbara Spohr Memorial Award for Photography 2027

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity

Barbara Spohr, title unknown (unknown date). C-print, 40.3 cm x 50.6 cm.

Now Seeking Applications

Created by the friends and family of the late artist Barbara Spohr, the Barbara Spohr Memorial Award for Photography encourages the development of Canadian contemporary photography by providing financial and creative assistance to a mid-career Canadian artist making a compelling contribution to the field.

This annual award supports one Canadian citizen or permanent resident working in photography to undertake a fully funded residency in the Banff Centre Crich Studio. This competitive program supports independent research, creative exploration, and project development.

Barbara Spohr Memorial Award for Photography 2027
Application Deadline: June 17, 2026
Program Dates: January 18 – February 12, 2027

During this month-long, self-directed residency, the award winner will have 24/7 access to the Crich Studio, a Leighton Artist Studio featuring private analogue darkroom facilities; facilitated access to digital print production; technical support from the photography facilitator at Banff Centre; and the option of giving a public talk with an associated fee at CARFAC-based rates.

Applications are open to Canadian mid-career photo-based artists with a strong exhibition record. The Barbara Spohr Memorial Award residency supports independent projects across a broad range of creative photo practices.

For the purposes of this program, mid-career is defined as a minimum of ten exhibitions in a professional context such as artist-run centres, public art galleries, or recognized photo festivals; 8 to 15 years of professional arts experience; and demonstrated commitment to professional practice.

Applicants must be Canadian, a Permanent Resident or eligible under the terms of the Jay Treaty. Banff Centre invites applicants and artists of all ages (18+), backgrounds, gender identities, and expressions.

This program is 100% scholarshipped, covering all tuition, single accommodation and a meal plan. A travel bursary is also included. Regional maximums apply. The recipient must book their own travel. Material support of up to $1,000 CAD in supplies is included.

Please visit the program page for more information and to apply.

About Leighton Artist Studios at Banff Centre

Ten remarkable studio spaces to inspire and accommodate creative practice.

Self-directed residencies at the Leighton Artist Studios offer professional creatives in all disciplines an inspiring retreat environment for the development of their work. Located on Banff Centre campus, the program offers space and focused time for research creation, experimentation and project development.

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For more information, contact:
Admissions
Email: Admissions@banffcentre.ca

Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
107 Tunnel Mountain Drive
Banff, AB T1L 1H5 Canada
Phone: 403.762.6100
banffcentre.ca/visual-arts