Call for local Indigenous artists

Local Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, or Inuit) artists are encouraged to submit work samples and a brief concept for the commissioned artwork that will appear on this year’s Orange Shirt Day t‑shirt. Artists at all stages of their practice are welcome to declare interest.

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) Indigenous Space & Visual Symbols in the Health Sciences Committee leads this initiative in partnership with Shop USask. Since 2019, the committee has supported the creation of non‑college‑specific orange shirts to help the campus community acknowledge Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Proceeds support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and provide direct compensation to the featured artist.

The deadline to declare interest in this Call for Artists is Friday, April 10, 2026.

Project 1: Commissioned artwork for Orange Shirt Day

The first project is the primary opportunity: the selected artist will create the design that appears on this year’s orange t-shirt. The artwork may be created as an original physical painting or digital graphic design.

The selected artist will receive a $1,500 commission paid upon approval, plus a 15% royalty on the retail price of each shirt sold. Artists at all stages of their practice are welcome; early‑stage concepts are accepted.

Project 2: Handcrafted artwork for Shop USask

In addition to the shirt commission, artists may choose to submit proposals to make handcrafted artwork available to the USask community through Shop USask. This opportunity is optional and supports Shop USask’s ongoing commitment to showcasing local Indigenous artistry.

Eligibility and documentation

Only Indigenous candidates will be considered for these projects. As such, verification of Indigenous membership/citizenship with documentation is a condition of receiving the commission.

Royalties, fees and proceeds

Proceeds from orange shirt sales continue to support work toward the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the artist responsible for the featured artwork.

Full details

Full details for each project are available at: https://shop.usask.ca/call-for-artists.