Indigenous Designer-in-Residence
/Job Title:
Indigenous Designer-in-Residence
Organization:
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Deadline:
Sep. 30, 2026
Organization Description:
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is Canada’s only polytechnic university, proudly serving the South Fraser region for more than 40 years. With campuses in Surrey, Richmond, Langley, and Cloverdale, KPU is deeply connected to the communities it serves and to the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and lived experiences of its students. Through academic excellence, applied learning, innovation, and strong industry and community partnerships, KPU prepares students for meaningful futures.
Website:
Job Description:
The Wilson School of Design (WSD) invites applications from established or emerging Indigenous designers, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit of Canada, for a position as Indigenous Designer-in-Residence.
This residency will support Indigenous designers in the research and creation of new works, and is open to designers in a variety of fields, including but not restricted to fashion and apparel design, graphic design, interior design, product design, and other interdisciplinary design practices. The Indigenous Designer-in-Residence will be able to divide their time between their own creative practice and contributing to the Wilson School of Design.
In their application, candidates are encouraged to detail how they envision engaging with the Wilson School of Design and the broader KPU community of faculty, students, and staff. For more information about the Wilson School of Design, please visit our website at https://www.kpu.ca/design. An applicant does not need to have to an expertise in all disciplines, but have at least one expertise and a common fundamental understanding of others. Designers will be compensated for the duration of their residency. There will also be funding available for KPU/WSD-specific events, expenses for materials and supplies, as well as for honoraria for designers whom the Indigenous Designer-in-Residence may want to invite to events.
Applications should include:
A curriculum vitae or resume
A cover letter or video that includes your statement of interest; a proposal of the design project you will undertake during the residency; and a description of the kinds of events you would like to plan, and how you see these contributing to the KPU/WSD community. (For video submissions, please provide a link to a website or Google doc.) Please include a statement clearly indicating your availability to be present on KPU campuses (primarily the Richmond campus).
A letter of support or documentation regarding your connections to Indigenous community and/or an Indigenous organization, as well as lived experience.
A portfolio: up to 10 original works with titles and dates.
Please provide the portfolio through a link to a website; or links to videos or audio files; or a link to a Google doc.
The names of two references: One from community and one professional.
Responsibilities:
The organization and hosting of a series of events for the WSD and KPU that may include the following:
Designer talks/critiques; workshops; studio visits; outreach activities
Giving guest lectures, or workshops within the WSD and KPU.
Consulting with students and designers of various abilities.
Participating in events organized by the WSD and/or KPU
Meeting regularly with the Director, Strategy and Business Development, WSD
Qualifications:
Relevant community-based and/or professional experience rooted in Indigenous communities, knowledges, and traditions
Designers should be active in their design discipline(s) with an established or emerging record of work as made evident through websites, exhibitions, showcases, reviews, articles, etc.
A record of participation in the design community and related events
Enthusiasm for connecting with KPU’s community members from a variety of areas and disciplines
Willingness to organize and plan events in collaboration with the
WSD Communications and Events Coordinator.
How to Apply:
Please apply directly on our career's website: https://tre.tbe.taleo.net/tre01/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=JT63GS&cws=37&rid=4706
Remuneration:
$45/hour
