The Delegation of the European Union to Canada (EUD) and OCAD University invite emerging youth artists (ages 18–29) from Canada and the European Union (EU) to apply for an opportunity to participate in the DemocracyXChange Summit (DXC), taking place 16–18 April 2026 in Toronto, Canada.
The DXC Summit is Canada’s flagship gathering for dialogue on democracy, civic imagination, and civic involvement. This year’s Summit, themed ‘Side By Side: Building an Economy that Serves Democracy’, will focus on the role that people play in shaping democratic and economic systems, in cities and countries alike, underscoring the need to address global challenges through collaborative, creative, and action-oriented approaches.
For the second year, the EU and OCAD are inviting emerging artists to exhibit as part of the Summit’s opening night on 16 April 2026. Selected artists will showcase their works during the DXC Opening Night Exhibition and will participate throughout the Summit, contributing to critical conversations on the role of art in strengthening democracy, civic life, and civil society.
Applications from equity-deserving groups—including racialized artists, Indigenous artists, artists with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ artists—are strongly encouraged. Collaborative groups may apply only if all members meet eligibility criteria.
Support
- 2,000 EUR artist honorarium (~ 3,000 CAD) shared if awarded to an artist pair
- Round-trip travel for one artist to Toronto (subject to EU rules)
- Accommodation for the duration of the exhibition and Summit
- Installation and technical support, including production assistance
- Production/material budget up to 1,000 EUR (~1,500 CAD)
- Shipping support up to 500 EUR (~750 CAD)
