Call for Applications: RiverBrink Artist Residency 2026 

Josh Bellingham, 2025.

Call for Applications: RiverBrink Artist Residency 2026

Submission Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026 for the first residency period (June 12 – 17), see below for more information about deadlines.

Launched in Spring 2026, the RiverBrink Artist Residency offers an inspiring opportunity for qualified professional artists to experience and work in one of Canada’s most breathtaking natural and cultural settings. The residency includes a comfortably furnished, air-conditioned studio apartment located on the second floor of the art museum’s historic coach house. The apartment features a full bathroom and kitchen facilities, offering artists the comfort and autonomy to focus fully on their creative practice. The space provides privacy and tranquility, complete with a stunning window view overlooking the majestic Niagara River—a constantly shifting landscape that invites deep reflection and creative exploration.

RiverBrink Art Museum, 2026.

About the Residency

The residency is suitable for single or couple occupancy; please note that it is not suitable for children or pets. On-site parking is included, and artists are encouraged to enjoy the beautiful grounds at RiverBrink, ideal for relaxation, sketching, or plein air painting. The residency is also within walking distance of scenic and historically significant Queenston Heights. While the location is peaceful and removed from urban noise, artists should note that there is no public transportation available—travel to and from the residency is the responsibility of the artist, and food is not provided. The site is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from the world-famous Niagara Falls in one direction, and the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake in the other, providing easy access to both natural wonders and cultural attractions, as well as essential food and supplies. With no other artist residencies currently operating in the Niagara region, RiverBrink offers a distinctive dual experience: dedicated creative time in a comfortable and inspiring environment, paired with immersion in one of Ontario’s most celebrated landscapes.

Eligibility

The residency is open to professional artists working in visual and other art forms (writing, poetry, etc). Visit here for a description and definition of a professional artist in Canada.

Artist Residency Fee
Single residency for 6 days: $800 + HST
Couple residency for 6 days: $1,200 + HST

How to Apply

Artists interested in applying to 2026 RiverBrink Art Museum Artist Residency must complete the Application Form online.

Please review the Occupancy Agreement before submitting your application.

Schedule and Application Deadlines

The residency operates on a six-day schedule, from Friday (arriving after 3 pm) to Wednesday (departure time 11 am).

Weeks Available:

June 12 – 17 (Deadline: May 22)
June 26 – July 1 (Deadline: May 26)
July 3 – 8 (Deadline: June 3)
July 24 – 29 (Deadline: June 24)
July 31 – August 5 (Deadline: June 31)
August 28 – September 2 (Deadline: July 13)
October 9 – 14 (Deadline: August 9)

Notification: Two weeks following the application deadline.

Josh Bellingham, 2025.

For additional information or questions, please contact:
Moyu Chen
mchen@riverbrink.org | (905) 262-4510

RiverBrink gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Niagara Community Foundation (NCF); a public foundation serving the people of Niagara since 2000. NCF connects donors to causes and communities to resources through permanent endowment funds, providing grants to eligible charitable organizations in culture, health, education, environment, recreation and social service sectors. NCF turns intent into impact.

About RiverBrink

RiverBrink Art Museum is a public art museum in Queenston, Niagara-on-the-Lake. In operation since 1983, the art museum is housed in the former home of art collector and lawyer Samuel E. Weir. Open year round, RiverBrink features exhibitions organized from the Weir collection of historical art along with exhibitions of contemporary Canadian art. The site features a boutique, extensive grounds, and a view of the Niagara River.

RiverBrink Art Museum
116 Queenston Street
Queenston, ON L0S 1L0
www.riverbrink.org
905.262.4510

Art Museum Hours
Tuesday – Sunday: 10am – 5pm

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