Ottawa - The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, C.M., O.M., Speaker of the Senate, and the Honourable Francis Scarpaleggia, M.P., Speaker of the House of Commons, have issued a call for applications for Canada’s first Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate.

This new role was created through a 2024 amendment to the Parliament of Canada Act to promote the arts in Canada, through Parliament, including by fostering knowledge, enjoyment, awareness and development of the arts.

The Artist Laureate must work in at least one of the following artistic disciplines as defined in the Parliament of Canada Act: drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, design, crafts, photography, videography, filmmaking or digital creations.

Applicants must have a substantial record of demonstrating artistic excellence and have made significant contributions to the visual arts community. Applications are welcomed from individuals from all backgrounds and life experiences who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada, from any province or territory.

As the steward for the Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate Program, the Library of Parliament will support the Artist throughout their two-year term by assisting them with the planning, coordination and delivery of their programming initiatives. It also offers an annual stipend and a budget for travel, programming and administrative expenses. The deadline for applications is November 16, 2025.

Quotes

“The creation of the Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate position marks a new chapter in promoting the arts at the heart of our democracy. The role offers a unique opportunity to illuminate Canada’s rich and vibrant artistic landscape. I encourage artists from coast to coast to coast to apply and share their vision with the country.”

The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, C.M., O.M., Speaker, Senate of Canada

“Art is essential to a thriving democracy; it reflects our stories, sparks dialogue and brings people together. The Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate will help connect Canadians to their parliamentary democracy through creativity and an appreciation of the arts. Visual artists from all backgrounds should consider applying.”

The Honourable Francis Scarpaleggia, M.P., Speaker, House of Commons

“The Library of Parliament is honoured to support the first Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate, whose creativity will not only define this new role but also leave a lasting legacy to inspire all who follow.”

Christine Ivory, Parliamentary Librarian

Quick facts

• The Speaker of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Commons will select the Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate from a shortlist provided by the Canada Council for the Arts and a selection committee.
• The Library of Parliament is the steward of the Parliamentary Visual Artist Laureate Program.
• The Visual Artist Laureate will hold office for a term of up to two years.
• The position includes an annual stipend and a budget for travel and expenses.
• The deadline for applications is November 16, 2025.
• The first Visual Artist Laureate is expected to be named in spring 2026.

Associated links

• Visual Artist Laureate website
• Application process

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