Limited Spots Available: Foundation Year Program at the Yukon School of Visual Arts Beginning Fall 2026

Overview

Join the Foundation Year Program at Yukon School of Visual Arts in Dawson City, Yukon for an 8-month visual arts program beginning Fall 2026. The program emphasizes land-based learning and what it means to create art in the specific context of Dawson City and within Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin Territory. Designed and run by artists for artists, the program covers painting, drawing, printmaking, bookmaking, photography, video, sculpture, installation, and performance.

Program Features

• Small class sizes with a maximum of 15 students
• Individual studio spaces in a shared environment
• Multiple exhibition opportunities
• World-renowned faculty
• Field trips to important Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin cultural and heritage sites
• Lectures and workshops by local and visiting artists

Program Details

The Foundation Year program is equivalent to the first year of art school or a stand-alone visual arts certificate. It is part of the Faculty of Applied Arts at Yukon University. Graduates can go on to complete an arts degree at partner schools across Canada.

Who This Program Is For

• Artists with an arts practice who haven't attended art school and want to evolve visual arts skills
• Those who have always wanted to spend a winter in a small, sub-arctic artist community and are open to learning about being a respectful guest on Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin Territory
• Those serious about studying art and considering college or university art/design programs who want a first-year experience in a small, attentive program

Application Deadline

Applications accepted on a rolling basis until July 15, 2026.

How to Apply

Visit the Admission Requirements page for application instructions. Portfolio reviews are available; email to set up a virtual meeting.

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