Applications Due February 1 for 2017 and 2018 Chilkoot Trail Artist Residency

Date: November 7, 2016
Contact: Ben Hayes, 907-983-9206

Skagway – Together, the Yukon Arts Centre, Parks Canada, the Skagway Arts Council, and the National Park Service invite established visual artists to apply to the seventh year of the Chilkoot Trail Artist Residency. In the Artist Residency program, artists camp and experience the historic Chilkoot Trail, backpacking from Alaska to the Yukon Territory. Interested artists can apply by visiting the Yukon Arts Centre website.

In 2017, a Canadian, an American, and a regional (Yukon/Alaska) artist will be selected. In 2018, a regional artist and two artists from anywhere in the world will be selected for the program. Applications for both years are due February 1, 2017. This creative journey allows artists time to interact with hikers, create art, and soak in the natural and historic beauty of the trail. Artists deliver four art talks or workshops as public outreach both on the trail and in the surrounding communities of Skagway, Alaska and Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. Additionally, artists submit digital files of work initiated during the Artist Residency to the partner organizations by deadlines provided. Each artist is encouraged to bring one friend or family member for support.

The goal of the residency program is to increase public awareness of the Chilkoot Trail, particularly in major cities. By creating art during and after the hike, and by leading workshops and art talks on the trail and in nearby communities, artists inspire people all over the world to appreciate the legacy of the Chilkoot Trail.