Utopia Rewired: EU-Canada Youth Artist Exhibition Call
Emerging artists 18-29 from Canada and EU invited to exhibit at DemocracyXChange Summit 2026 in Toronto with €2,000 honorarium.
The Delegation of the European Union to Canada and OCAD University invite emerging youth artists aged 18-29 from Canada and the European Union to participate in the DemocracyXChange Summit, taking place April 16-18, 2026 in Toronto. The exhibition theme 'Utopia Rewired: Creative Visions for Democratic Futures' invites artists to imagine how creativity can help re-envision democratic life and economic systems. Selected artists will showcase works during the DXC Opening Night Exhibition on April 16, 2026, and participate throughout the Summit contributing to conversations on art's role in strengthening democracy and civic life. The exhibition seeks works illuminating new forms of value, connection, and shared prosperity, challenging extractive systems with imaginative alternatives. Selected artists receive substantial benefits including a €2,000 honorarium (shared if awarded to artist pairs), round-trip travel to Toronto, accommodation during the exhibition and Summit, installation and technical support, a production budget up to €1,000, and shipping support up to €500. Artists also receive free access to all Summit programming. Up to 3 solo artists or artist pairs will be selected. Artworks must fit within a 10×10 ft floor plan and be physically transportable via airplane. Applications from equity-deserving groups including racialized artists, Indigenous artists, artists with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ artists are strongly encouraged. Evaluation criteria include Thematic Alignment & Ingenuity (30%), Artistic Quality (30%), Feasibility (20%), and Public Engagement Potential (20%). This cross-border opportunity connects emerging artists across the EU and Canada, offering visibility at Canada's leading public forum on democracy and civic innovation.