Welcome to the

Young Talent Program

Welcome to the New Art Foundation of Vancouver's Young Talent Program – your gateway to a world of artistic inspiration, creativity, and opportunity!

We believe that every young artist possesses the potential to create something extraordinary, and we're here to nurture and celebrate your artistic journey. Our program is proud to be guided by industry leaders like Nick Hsieh, Emmy Award-winning visual effects supervisor; Lily Bai, a fine arts and design maestro with an impressive Hollywood portfolio; Sean McMurchy, the visionary behind the iconic game "Plants vs. Zombies"; Sheila Hall, an art maven with an illustrious career in public art and education; and Alexandra Peck, a leading authority in Indigenous art history.

About The Program

Empowering Emerging Artists: Your Path to Creative Excellence

Our scholarship is a beacon of support for youth aged 14-25 in the Vancouver community who aspire to excel in the arts and design industries. We understand the financial challenges that budding artists face, and that's why we offer not just a scholarship, but a transformative experience. About the Program: Nurturing Creativity, Empowering Youth

Discover the Young Talent Program, an initiative by the New Art Foundation of Vancouver that celebrates creativity, diversity, and the boundless potential of young artists and creatives. With an open door to talents from every discipline and background, we invite aspiring artists, photographers, designers, and visionaries to join us on a transformative artistic journey.

Eligibility: The Young Talent Program is designed to empower youth aged 14-25 in the Metro Vancouver/Lower Mainland region who are passionate about art and creativity. Our eligibility criteria are broad and inclusive, welcoming individuals from various disciplines, including but not limited to:

Fine Arts: Whether your canvas is traditional painting, sculpture, or experimental mixed media, we encourage all forms of visual artistry.

Photography: Capture the world through your lens and unveil your unique perspective.

Design: From graphic design to industrial design, your innovative ideas have a place here.

Digital Arts: Explore the digital realm through animation, digital painting, and interactive media.

Craftsmanship: The art of crafting, from jewelry-making to woodworking.

Our program believes in the power of diversity. We welcome applicants from various cultural backgrounds, experiences, and artistic mediums. If you are a young creative soul with a passion for artistic expression, you belong here.

A Platform for Your Artistic Journey: The Young Talent Program offers not just financial support but a community of like-minded individuals and the guidance of experienced mentors. It's a platform to nurture your talent, refine your skills, and take your artistic ambitions to new heights.

Meet the Jury Panel

  • Sean is the art director for Electronic Arts (EA), and is most well known for being the art director for the ground-breaking phenomena Plants vs. Zombies. He has been a professional concept artist with over two decades experience working in the creative industry, including video games, board games and books.

  • Sheila is an Emeritus Faculty member at Emily Carr University of Art + Design. She teaches drawing, sculpture, and creative processes at the Faculty of Culture and Communication. Sheila has experience as the chair of the Public Art Committee for Vancouver and as the president of Vancouver's Contemporary Art Gallery. She also coordinates community projects and supervises students in projects locally and internationally.

  • Nick is the visual effects supervisor at ReDefine and an Emmy Award winner for visual effects. He is well known for his visual effect work on films, most notably Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Pacific Rim and Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol. He’s also served as a jury member on the Academy Awards.

  • Alexendra currently serves as the inaugural Audain Chair in Historical Indigenous Art at UBC’s Art History, Visual Art & Theory Department. She received her Ph.D. in Anthropology from Brown University in 2021, completing a dissertation on the imposition of totem poles and formlines into Coast Salish artistic repertoire.

  • Lily is the art director for NAFVan and a graduate of fine arts from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. She has 20+ years work experience in fine arts and design work within the game and film industry, working for Electronic Arts (Need for Speed, FIFA & 007 Everything or Nothing), and popular films.

Scholarship: Financial Support for Your Artistic Journey

Discover a world of artistic possibilities with the New Art Foundation of Vancouver's Young Talent Program. We're here to empower your creative journey with an array of exciting prizes and opportunities.

1. Year-Long Mentorship by Industry Professionals: Our top prize winners will enjoy a year-long mentorship guided by industry professionals in their chosen field. Whether it's visual effects, fine arts, gaming, or another creative domain, our mentors will inspire and elevate your artistry.

2. Gallery Representation: A Platform for Your Art: Our top two winners gain entry into Vancouver's prestigious art scene with a chance to be signed by a renowned local gallery. Your work will reach a broader audience, setting you on the path to a promising art career.

3. Generous Cash Prizes: Both top winners will receive a substantial cash prize of $1,000 each. Use this support to invest in supplies, education, or any artistic endeavor of your choice.

4. Runner-Up Benefits: Enhance Your Skills: Runner-ups receive art class credits to refine their skills and professional development opportunities with our esteemed partners across the Lower Mainland. These experiences expand horizons and enrich your artistic journey.

Mentorship: Guidance from Industry Professionals

Mentorship: Guidance from Industry Professionals At the heart of the Young Talent Program lies a transformative experience: one-on-one mentorship with industry professionals who excel in your chosen field of artistry. We believe that mentorship is the catalyst for growth, and we are dedicated to providing you with the mentorship experience of a lifetime.

How It Works:

Tailored to Your Aspirations: Upon selection as a program participant, you will have the opportunity to choose your preferred field of artistry. Whether it's visual effects, fine arts, gaming, design, or any other creative discipline, we'll match you with an experienced mentor who shares your passion.

A Year-Long Journey: Your mentorship will span an entire year, allowing for a deep, enriching connection with your mentor. Together, you'll explore, learn, and create, unlocking your full potential as an artist.

Personalized Guidance: Your mentor will provide personalized guidance, feedback, and insights tailored to your unique artistic journey. This invaluable support will help you refine your skills, broaden your perspective, and navigate the complexities of your chosen field. Beyond the Classroom: Our mentorship program goes beyond traditional education. It's a dynamic, real-world experience that will prepare you for a successful career in the creative industry. You'll gain insights, network with professionals, and receive practical advice to kickstart your artistic career.

A Future of Possibilities: With the guidance of your mentor, your artistic vision will evolve, and your potential will flourish. Whether you dream of creating blockbuster films, shaping the gaming world, or leaving your artistic mark in any other way, this mentorship program is your stepping stone to a bright and fulfilling future.

The Young Talent Program isn't just about scholarships; it's about nurturing your talent, providing the guidance you need to thrive, and celebrating the artistic visionary in you. Apply today and embark on a year-long journey of artistic discovery and transformation.

Unlock your potential with mentorship from industry professionals and the Young Talent Program.

Young Talent Exhibition: Showcase your Work to the World The Young Talent Program is not just about honing your craft; it's about sharing your artistic vision with the world. As a participant in our program, you'll have the incredible opportunity to exhibit your work at the prestigious True Colour Gallery in North Vancouver.

Top Winners: Solo Exhibition: For our top winners, the journey culminates in an exclusive solo exhibition at True Colour Gallery. This is your chance to take center stage, presenting a body of work that reflects your artistic journey and vision. Your solo exhibition will be a platform to express your unique voice and captivate art enthusiasts, collectors, and the community.

All Winners: A Collective Showcase: But that's not all. Every winner, including our top two and runner-ups, will feature their work in a collective showcase at True Colour Gallery. This collective exhibition celebrates the diversity of talent nurtured by the Young Talent Program. It's a chance to stand alongside fellow artists, share your passion, and inspire others.

A Venue of Distinction: True Colour Gallery is a renowned hub for contemporary art, known for its commitment to promoting emerging artists. With its prime location in North Vancouver, it offers the perfect setting to engage with art lovers and collectors. Your work will be showcased in an environment that values creativity, innovation, and artistic expression.

A Platform for Your Voice: The Young Talent Exhibition isn't just a display of art; it's a platform for your voice and your story. It's where your art meets the world, and your journey as an artist becomes an inspiration to others. It's a stepping stone to building your artistic legacy.

Join the Celebration: Apply to the Young Talent Program, and seize this opportunity to exhibit your work, whether it's a solo spotlight or a collective celebration. Elevate your artistic journey, share your creativity, and inspire the world through the Young Talent Exhibition.

Unlock your artistic potential and showcase your work at True Colour Gallery with the Young Talent Program.

Young Talent Exhibition: Showcase Your Work to the World

Application Process: HOW TO APPLY

Application Process: How to Apply Applying for the Young Talent Program is your first step towards unlocking a world of creative opportunities. We've streamlined the application process to make it simple and accessible, allowing you to showcase your artistic potential effortlessly.

Step 1: Prepare Your Portfolio Gather your best work that represents your unique artistic style and vision. Your portfolio should reflect your passion and creativity, providing a glimpse into your artistic journey.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form Visit our website to access the online application form by January 5, 2024. Here, you'll have the chance to upload your portfolio and provide essential information about your artistic background.

Step 3: Share Your Aspirations We want to understand your artistic goals and aspirations. In the application, you'll find a series of brief questions that allow you to express your vision, the impact you hope to make through your art, and why the Young Talent Program is the ideal platform for your journey.

Step 4: Submit Your Application Once you've completed the form and uploaded your portfolio, simply hit the "Submit" button. Your application will be securely received, and you'll receive a confirmation email to acknowledge its successful submission. The adjudication process will take place between January - February 2024.

Step 5: Await the Selection Process Our dedicated team will carefully review each application, considering your portfolio, responses, and passion for art. Keep an eye on our website and your email for updates on the selection process.

Step 6: Join the Young Talent Community If selected, you'll become part of a vibrant community of emerging artists, creatives, and mentors. Your journey with the Young Talent Program begins, offering you mentorship, exhibition opportunities, and a chance to make your mark in the artistic world.

Our Young Talents

Lenthey is a surrealist emerging artist who creates psychological artwork inspired by her own universe and reflections of life around her. Her pieces often feature cleverly ensconced details that reveal clues about the subject matter. She encourages viewers to think beyond what they see and question the rules of their reality.

Bowen is a contemporary artist whose work explores the interplay between human experiences and the built environment. She graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2022 with a degree in Industrial Design & Sculpture. Her work highlights complex themes such as power dynamics and emotional intricacies that are present in daily human interactions.

Apply Now!

Start Your Artistic Journey Today

Applications for the NAFVan Young Talent Program open in mid-October 2023. This is your chance to break barriers, unleash your creativity, and embark on a transformative artistic journey. We are here to champion your dreams, so stay tuned for updates on our website!