University of Calgary Artistic Research Award
Description
The University of Calgary Artistic Research Award recognizes outstanding contributions by artist-researchers to the annual conference of Performance Studies international (PSi). The award includes a prize of $500 USD and is given to a conference presentation that demonstrates the powerful potential of artistic research to generate new knowledge and expand epistemological horizons—both within conference programming and across broader academic and professional contexts.
Eligibility
The award is open to all conference participants, including those presenting in person or virtually.
Eligible contributions may include:
- media-based presentations
- workshops
- performances
Criteria
Because artistic research is broad and fluid, the assessment criteria for this award are intentionally inclusive and elastic. The selection committee will focus on several widely recognized characteristics of artistic research:
- Enactive: artistic research is practice-based and carried out through action and experience.
- Process/Product: artistic research often values process as outcome, and artistic practice serves as a mode of inquiry, analysis, documentation, and dissemination.
- Situated: artistic research emerges from specific contexts, participants, and conditions, even when its insights may resonate beyond that setting.
- Emergent: both the knowledge produced and the methods used arise through the research process itself, requiring responsiveness and adaptability.
Application Process
To be considered, applicants must submit:
- their name
- contact information
- a 300-word abstract of the work
The abstract should clearly explain how the proposed presentation aligns with the award’s criteria and expectations.
Please send submissions to awards@psi-web.org with the subject line:
UCalgary Award Application
Deadline: Nominations must be received by June 5th.
Selection Process
- Up to 7 presentations will be shortlisted for consideration during the conference.
- Those selected will be notified before the conference and should expect that a live jury will attend their presentation/performance during the conference.
- Virtual presentations are also welcome and will be considered within the adjudication process.
Contact
For questions, please contact: awards@psi-web.org