Artistic Director, The Bows
Location: Mohkínstsis (Calgary), Canada
Deadline: 8 May 2026 (11:59 pm MDT)
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Salary: $53,600 per year (+ 3% cost of living increase every two years)
Hours: 35 hours per week
Start date: 1 June 2025
Benefits: Healthcare (after 3-month probation), 5 weeks vacation
About the Role
The Bows is seeking an Artistic Director to lead its curatorial and artistic direction, working closely with the Systems Director and Board of Directors.
The role focuses on developing and delivering exhibitions and public programming, including talks, performances, workshops, publications, mentorships, and outreach initiatives. The Artistic Director will nurture relationships with artists and communities while contributing to the organisation’s strategic direction.
Working within a non-hierarchical structure, the Artistic Director collaborates across leadership, programming, and organisational development.
Key Responsibilities
Programming and Curatorial Direction
- Develop and deliver exhibitions and public programmes
- Research, invite, and support artists
- Ensure programming is relevant, feasible, and community-focused
- Oversee exhibition materials and communications
Artist and Community Engagement
- Build relationships with artists and communities
- Support artists throughout project development
- Develop public-facing programming
Organisational and Administrative
- Work on budgets, funding applications, and reporting
- Contribute to archives and organisational processes
- Report to the Board and support strategic planning
Outreach and Communications
- Support communications and audience engagement
- Lead outreach initiatives and events
Mentorship
- Support emerging artists and arts professionals
- Facilitate knowledge-sharing and development
About the Organisation
The Bows is an artist-run centre in Mohkínstsis (Calgary), Alberta, Treaty 7 Territory.
It supports early-career artists through exhibitions, studio provision, and public programming, with a focus on experimental and socially engaged practices.
Equity
Applications from racialised individuals and LGBTQ2S+ communities are strongly encouraged and will be prioritised. The Bows is committed to equitable and anti-colonial organisational practices.
Qualifications
- Experience curating exhibitions and public programmes
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Experience working collaboratively with artists
- Familiarity with funding and reporting (Canada preferred)
- Commitment to equity and anti-colonial practices
- Interest in mentorship
Working Conditions
- Some evening and weekend work required
- Occasional physical tasks
- Workspace and equipment provided
