Giftware call for artists/artisan entries

Strathcona County is excited to host the 2026 Alberta Summer Games from July 16 - 19, 2026. As part of this celebration, Strathcona County is inviting local and regional Alberta artists and artisans to submit proposals for handmade gift items. These items will be used to recognize and thank key contributors to the Games.

Printable version of call for artists/artisan entries (pdf 197 KB)

About the opportunity

We are seeking high-quality, handmade or artist-designed items that are either decorative or functional These gifts should reflect the spirit of the Games and may incorporate the Games logo or branding colours (provdided in the branding guidelines). Use of the logo is optional. Branding guidelines must be followed if the logo is being reproduced digitally.

Each selected artist/artisan will be responsible for producing a single item type (with minor variations allowed) to ensure consistency across gifts.

Gift categories

Above costs should be for the finished product including packaging.
Artists/artisans may apply for one or both categories.

Key requirements

• Items must be non-perishable, durable, safe and archival in nature
• Items that include a logo, slogan, or emblem representing the Games are encouraged (see appendix)
• Artist collaborations are welcome
• Only one artist/artisan/collaboration will be selected per gift type
• One artist/artisan/collaboration (A or B), at the discretion of the selection committee

Timeline

• Call opens: October 2025
• Submission deadline: January 16, 2026 at 8 a.m. MT
• Artists notified: February/March 2026
• Production period: approximately 17 weeks
• A prototype may be required
• Final delivery deadline: June 19, 2026

Artists are responsible for delivering or shipping the completed items.

Selection process

A panel of Alberta Summer Games stakeholders will review all submissions after the deadline. Selection will be based on:

• Artist/artisan location (local/Alberta-based preferred)
• Quality and craftsmanship
• Suitability for the Games
• Price and value
• Low waste, recycled, locally sourced items are considered desirable
• Ability to meet production quantities and delivery timelines

Note: Panel decisions are final. All applicants will be contacted after selections are made.

How to apply

Artists/artisans may submit up to five different items per gift category (A and/or B). For each item, please include:

• Item title/name
• Type of item
• Medium(s) used
• Approximate dimensions (in inches: H x W x D)
• JPEG image(s) - include multiple views if helpful
• Price per item (include volume discount if available)
• Available modifications (e.g., colour, finish size)
• Any other relevant details

Also include the following artist information

• Artist/artisan name (or collaboration name)
• Business name (if applicable)
• Full mailing and/or business address
• Website or online store (if applicable)
• Estimate production timeline
• Optional: Artist bio and/or poduction details (e.g., where/how the item is made)

Submission instructions

Please email your complete submission to:
Jenny Wilson, Community Advisor - Culture jenny.wilson@strathcona.ca 780-464-8058.

• You will recieve a confirmation reply upon receipt during office hours, within 48 hours.
• If email submission is not possible, please contact us to arrange alternative method.
• Please do not send physical samples to the County

Additional notes

• The selection panel will meet in January/February 2026
• Selected artists will be contacted in February/March 2026
• A purchase contract with Strathcona County may be required
• Artists retain copyright to the original designs; The County receives a non-exclusive license to photograph and publicize items (crediting the artist)
• Indigenous, racialized, disabled, 2SLGBTQIA+ artists encouraged