SOLSTICE BURSARY

SPAO believes that diverse voices are crucial in establishing a better, more equitable arts community; those from marginalized communities and those experiencing financial hardship cannot be left behind. Financial instability disproportionately affects Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) people, communities of colour, members of the Trans community, people with disabilities and other marginalized people. As such, SPAO has created Solstice Bursaries prioritizing those in financial need from these traditionally marginalized groups. The Solstice Bursary covers the cost of the second year of the Diploma Program tuition. SPAO recognizes that the word "marginalized" could mean many things to different communities. Those in financial need who also self-identify as marginalized are encouraged to apply.

Any application to our college diploma program, in which the applicant identifies as a marginalized person, will be considered for the Solstice Bursary. Applicants can indicate this information within the college diploma program application.

LUNA BURSARY

The LUNA bursary is given out annually to a diploma student who, during their first year at SPAO, as well as in their application to the bursary, demonstrates drive and a focused direction for their work going forward. This is a merit-based bursary however, financial need may play a role in determining the final selection between comparable applications. This student must be proceeding from the first year into the second year of the diploma program.

The value of this bursary is $1,500.

SPHINX BURSARY

The SPHINX bursary is given out annually to a student who is graduating from the SPAO Diploma Program and has committed to entering the Artist Residency in the fall, winter, or summer term, immediately following their graduation*. This is a merit-based bursary however, financial need may play a role in determining the final selection between comparable applications. Please note that applicants for the SPHINX bursary must complete the artist-in-residence form before they can be considered for the Sphinx bursary.

The value of this bursary is $1,500.

JASON MICHAELS MEMORIAL BURSARY

Jason Michaels was a graduate of SPAO who passed away in 2016. Jason was an expert craftsman in the darkroom who created incredible silver gelatin prints in the SPAO darkroom; his second-year project consisted of stunningly beautiful classical nudes. Jason had always expressed an interest in completing the SPAO Artist Residency.

The Jason Michaels Memorial Bursary, given at maximum once a year, will go towards supporting one artist per year who intends to complete SPAO’s Artist Residency. This bursary will provide artists with the ability to participate in the SPAO community and develop their artistic careers.

JUDE PETER
SOLSTICE BURSARY

S. MARIA BRANDT
JASON MICHAELS MEMORIAL BUSARY

SPAO is thrilled to partner with the Ottawa Arts Council and the Ottawa Art Gallery to present the Project X Award. The award recognizes the merits of a publicly presented photographic project by an Ottawa-based artist at the emerging to mid-career level.

First Year

Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of outstanding achievement in Exhibition Production
Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of outstanding achievement in Portfolio Production

Second Year

Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of outstanding achievement in Exhibition Production
Award of Visual Merit - In recognition of an outstanding body of work
Alumni Award - For integrity of vision from first year to second year
Marc Guertin Craftsmanship Award - For dedication and commitment to experimental and exploratory approaches

Any Year

Directors Award - For community spirit and volunteerism
Lux Award - In recognition of outstanding achievement in lighting
Silver Award - Award for best use of traditional and historical processes
Albino Pescatore Book Art Award - In recognition of book design and thought-provoking content