art in the parks artist-in-residence program
The Art in the Parks Artist-in-Residence Program, in collaboration with The Rooms, has nurtured artistic expression since 1998. Offering up to five residencies each year, it immerses artists in the natural beauty of Newfoundland’s parks and local communities. Over the years, the program has produced a wide range of works and publications that have been showcased globally, fostering a deeper connection between art, landscape, and the public.
Residencies at Gros Morne and Terra Nova National Parks, in partnership with Parks Canada, and with The Landfall Trust (Brigus, NL), provide professional visual artists 4-6 weeks of focused time to develop new or ongoing projects. Artists are encouraged to engage with the public while working in peaceful, natural surroundings. The program spans mediums including painting, sculpture, film, photography, ceramics, textiles, and digital installations.
Applications are juried annually by staff from The Rooms and Parks Canada, ensuring a diverse selection of participants. While the primary application language is English, French-speaking artists are welcome, with support available. The program typically runs from May to October, with some flexibility in scheduling.
Gros Morne National Park
Located on Newfoundland’s West Coast at Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gros Morne National Park features incredibly varied landscapes, including coastal cliffs and beaches, forested hills, glacially-carved fjord-lakes, and arctic-alpine highlands. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its geological features and natural beauty, Gros Morne also offers opportunities to experience rural Newfoundland culture in the enclave communities of the park area. (Closest airport: Deer Lake, NL). Two artists may be selected annually for this location.
Terra Nova National Park
Located on Newfoundland’s Northeast Coast at Terra Nova National Park, approximately 2.5 hours from St. John’s. Easternmost of Canada’s National Parks, Terra Nova represents an Eastern Island Boreal Landscape - known for its long fingers of the Atlantic Ocean reaching deep into the heart of the forest. During the summer, whales, seals and icebergs enter the deep glacier-carved fjords which indent the coastline. The rich cultural ties to boatbuilding, and fishing are alive and well in the adjacent communities. Two artists may be selected annually for this location.
Landfall Trust, Brigus
Located in the small community of Brigus, Conception Bay, Newfoundland (about 45 minutes from St. John’s), and offered in partnership with The Landfall Trust, a non-profit organization that operates the historic property where American artist Rockwell Kent resided during the First World War. A provincial heritage site, the 200-year-old Kent Cottage is nestled on a cliff overlooking beautiful Brigus Bay and surrounded by 11 acres of untamed coastline. Landfall Trust’s mission is to preserve the cottage and pristine natural environment and offer opportunities for artists to create in this inspiring setting. One artist may be selected annually for this location.