Call for Art: Indigenous-Inspired Artwork for Cancer Care/Treatment Locations serving our Indigenous communities

Press Release

March 3, 2025

Project Overview: We are excited to announce an opportunity for Indigenous artists to contribute to a meaningful and impactful project aimed at enhancing the experience of Indigenous cancer patients across the Gaspé region. Our cancer care locations, in collaboration with the Mawlugutinej Cancer Screening Clinic, are seeking Indigenous-inspired artwork to represent and celebrate Indigenous culture, values, and heritage within our facilities.

Objective: The goal of this project is to create a welcoming and culturally resonant environment for Indigenous patients undergoing cancer treatment as well as raise awareness with recognition while celebrating our culture. By incorporating Indigenous art into our spaces and marketing campaigns, we aim to foster a sense of belonging, respect, and connection, while also honoring and elevating Indigenous perspectives within our healthcare systems.

Eligibility: This call is open to all Indigenous artists. We welcome submissions from individuals or groups across various artistic disciplines, including painting, digital art, and mixed media.

Submission Guidelines:

1. Artwork Theme: Submissions should reflect Indigenous themes, stories, or symbols. We encourage artworks that explore concepts of healing, community, strength, and resilience.
2. Medium: Artworks can be in any medium that can be photographed and displayed or installed within a healthcare environment, including but limited to paintings, prints, textiles, and digital installations.
3. Dimensions: Artworks should be adaptable to various display spaces and digital format. Please provide dimensions and installation requirements with your submission.
4. Submission Materials:
   • • A brief artist statement (200-300 words) explaining the artwork’s inspiration, significance, and connection to Indigenous culture.
     • High-quality images of the artwork.
5. Deadline: All submissions must be received by March 25, 2025. Late submissions will NOT be considered.

Selection Criteria: Submissions will be reviewed by a panel comprising representatives from cancer treatment centers, the Mawlugutinej Cancer Screening Clinic, and Indigenous community members. Artworks will be selected based on:

• • Cultural relevance and authenticity.
  • Artistic quality and creativity.
  • Suitability for healthcare environments.

Compensation: Selected artists will receive compensation for their original works in the based-on standing:

• • 1st Prize: $1000 and the chosen artwork will be prominently displayed in cancer treatment facilities that serve our community members in Quebec, Artist spotlight feature
  • 2nd Prize: $500 and your chosen artwork will be used in digital marketing as well as print to help Mawlugutinej Cancer Screening Clinic spread awareness.

**Selected winners will become part of Mawlugutinej’s Cancer Screening Clinic history; your original work of art will be prominently displayed at treatment centers that serve our community members. Help us to create a welcoming and culturally resonant environment for Indigenous patients undergoing cancer treatment as well as raise awareness with recognition while celebrating our culture.

How to Apply: Please send your submission materials to tanya.webster@listuguj.ca with the subject line “Indigenous Art Submission – [Your Name]”. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact Tanya Webster at 418-788-2155.

We are thrilled to collaborate with Indigenous artists on this important initiative and look forward to showcasing your inspiring work.

Thank you for your contribution to this vital project and for your dedication to enhancing the well-being of Indigenous patients across Quebec.

Sincerely,

Tanya Webster

Project Manager

Mawlugutinej Cancer Screening Clinic

tanya.webster@listuguj.ca

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