Presented by the Indigenous Curatorial Collective / Collectif des commissaires autochtones (ICCA) and C Magazine.

We’re excited to launch the 5th annual Indigenous Art Writing Award, an initiative created to support, compensate, and platform three standout individuals who are advancing critical and creative thought about Indigenous contemporary art.

Indigenous writers are invited to submit a single non-fiction text about an artist, project, exhibition, performance, event, initiative, theme, or other art-adjacent subject. Suggested length for submissions is between 1000-2000 words.

The winner will receive $1500 CAD; editorial support to prepare their article for publication in a future issue of C Magazine and to be shared across ICCA’s platforms; and a two-year C subscription. Two runners-up will receive $1000 CAD; an open invitation to develop a pitch for a different text to be published in C Magazine; and a two-year subscription. All participants can request feedback on their submitted work, and will receive a one-year subscription.

Applicants must identify as an Indigenous person. There are no geographical restrictions, although we strongly encourage those based in Canada to apply. Submissions should primarily be in English, but may include non-English words or phrases. For submissions entirely in another language, we kindly ask for translations. The award will be adjudicated by ICCA staff, C Magazine editors, and an external juror.

There is one submission per applicant. Please note that submissions must not be previously published or slated for future publication elsewhere. Complete the submission form by November 23, 2026.

Please write to editor@cmagazine.com if you require any accommodation during the application process. Note that measures will be taken to ensure that the identity of entrants remains unknown to adjudicators. More information about the kind of writing C Magazine publishes can be found on our Submissions page.