VANCOUVER METAL
ARTS ASSOCIATION
About the residency
The Printermedia Artist Residency presented by Malaspina Printmaekrs Society offers resident artists a rare opportunity to explore the intersection of metal and jewellery art with other material disciplines within the printmaking field.
The Metal Arts stream supported by the Vancouver Metal Arts Association provides accessible, inclusive space for newcomers to Vancouver's jewellery and metal arts field to research and explore in a self-led but supportive environment.
The intake process aims to support the development of artistic practice at every step, from applying and interviewing to setting up and getting to know their space, building community and networks, and making new work. A key graduation component is an addition of some kind to the residency for future residents.
What the residency offers
Space and equipment
-
24/7 access to a shared studio space focused on nonferrous metals and jewellery production
-
Silversmithing shop equipment, including oxy-propane Smith Little Torch setup with melting tips, GRS graversmith and Sil-Air Compressor, flexshafts, polishing lathe, rolling mill, and large sheet sheers
-
Access to Malaspina's printmaking presses, darkroom, large-format inkjet printer, design suite and woodshop, for residents with the skills to use them
-
Barrier-free washroom with shower, street-level automated entry, freight elevator and loading bay
Time and community
-
Minimum six-month periods of commitment, with potential extensions of up to two years
-
A diverse cohort comprised of other metal and jewellery artists
-
A community of artists working in printmaking, photography, and woodworking in adjacent studios
-
Support from residency coordinators and the wider VMAA network
Presentation of work and skill
-
Exhibiting in the street-level display at 1265 Howe Street (subject to availability)
-
Consigning work through an online and in-person sales platform
-
Leading skill shares, workshops, classes or demonstrations through Malaspina Printmakers Society's programming
For more details, refer to the latest residency call.
Past Residents
TIME: Preservation, Continuation, Evolution (2026)
Cristiano Bruno · Wendy Davey · Drew Jang · Alessandra Mei · Jessica Milum · Mayari Rodriguez · Sharon Wong
(with early participation with Catherinn Campoy)
An Unfamiliar Happening: Printmaking Jeweller's Eyes (2024)
Dr. Ching Sze-yin Cicy (Cicy Ching) · Stevie Gwynn · Eunhui Stella Lee · Celeste Lucero Maas
-
"Bloom Elsewhere" by Dr. Ching Sze-yin Cicy (Cicy Ching)
-
"The World is Your Oyster" by Eunhui Stella Lee
-
"In My Body" by Celeste Lucero Maas
-
"Daik'eo" by Maura Tamez
-
"Time Capsules" by Rob Van Yperen
Residency News
Follow @metalartresident on Instagram for more news.
Is the Printermedia Residency right for you?
We prioritise artists who need what the residency offers: space, tools, and connection. Strong applicants will be able to articulate how they intend to spend their time at the residency and how their plans align with the residency's guiding objectives:
-
Cultivating inclusive community and building connections to the broader field in Vancouver
-
Commitment to developing one's artistic practice
-
Participation in relevant craft and material practices
-
Advancing the creation of accessible and inclusive creative spaces for the metal arts discipline in Vancouver
Eligibility
This residency stream is open to artists with a metal or jewellery dimension to their practice, such as beading, metal sculpture, stone setting, engraving, casting, fabrication, chasing and repoussé, patination or enamelling. Not every process can be carried out in this space, so please tell us about your equipment needs when you apply.
We encourage applications from underrepresented and historically marginalized groups, including locally based First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, Black, Indigenous and other persons of colour, artists who identify as LGBTQ2SIA+, disabled artists, youth and elders.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the residency cost?
Residents pay a monthly studio fee to Malaspina Printmakers Society, calculated on a cost-recovery basis. Current fees and any subsidies are listed in the current call. For an additional fee, they may also gain access to the Granville Island location, although they will be required to be trained in the use of tools there.
When can I apply?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis every few months between intake calls. Watch the current call for intake dates.
Is housing included?
No. This is a studio residency, and residents arrange their own accommodation.
Do I need to be a member?
Yes. Residents can become lifetime members of Malaspina Printmakers Society for a one-time $5 fee. The Vancouver Metal Arts Association gifts a one-year membership to residents.
Can I bring my own tools and equipment?
Yes. Although the studio has some comsumables, equipment and tools, residents are encouraged to bring their own hand tools where necessary and are responsible for routine maintenance of the space.
What if the studio does not have what I need?
Residents should raise any questions about specialized equipment needs or consumables during their application. If there is
Our Collaborators
The program is presented by Malaspina Printmakers Society (MPS)with the support of the Vancouver Metal Arts Association (VMAA). In addition to buiding and equipping the metal shop, VMAA continues to jury applicants and support programming of the cohort.
This project would not have been possible without funding from the City of Vancouver (Cultural Services) and the Province of British Columbia (BC Arts Council)
