Photo caption: Express Yourself!, Keely O’Brien and Aspire Richmond youth, 2024.

The City of Richmond is inviting non-profit organizations, service organizations, community associations, libraries and schools to apply to be part of the 2027-2028 Engaging Artists in Community Program. This program pairs community partners with artists to work creatively on projects that addresses relevant issues or shared topics of interest. Commissioned projects will receive $12,000 in funding.

Artist projects may include, but are not limited to, public performances, sculptures, participatory art installations, hands-on art activities, workshops, exhibitions, digital media-based artwork and other art forms.

Past projects include Growing Together by Cara Guri in partnership with Brighouse Elementary School that explored nature through painting and Express Yourself by Keely O’Brien, a year-long collaboration with youth through the Richmond Public Library in partnership with Aspire Richmond, involving drawing, printmaking, storytelling and more with a neuro-diversity lens.

The application deadline for community organizations is Friday, October 23, 2026, with artist projects to take place in 2027 to 2028. 

Interested organizations are encouraged to contact PublicArt@richmond.ca or call 604-204-8671 in advance of applying.

To learn more about the Engaging Artists in Community Program, and to access the PDF application form, visit richmond.ca/PublicArtPrograms.