Mortem is a residency for artists interested in death to explore the concept from many points of view and to meet the people who work with death regularly. The residency will facilitate daily excursions led by historians, biologists, philosophers and funeeral workers.

Outline
Artist talk: We invite you to give a private artist talk to share your work with the group.
Momentum Moris:  Vanitas in art history, a guided tour of the collection at the National Gallery of Canada
Paliative care: Talk with a death doula.
History: International body disposition practices
Guided tour of the Beechwood Cemetery
Burial: Visit a funeral home to learn about standard burial processes, cremitorium and eco burials
A talk by Indigeonous Walks to learn about native burial traditions
Anatomy: Visit a University anatomy lab to find out what happens to bodies donated to science
Forensics: Visit the coroner
Biology: Death begins when the heart stops beating. A talk about the process of death and extinction.
Collect recently deceased birds with FLAP
Taxidermy: Visit to the studio of a local taxidermist |
Tour of the National Museum of Nature's large skeleton collection in the archives
Haunting: Seminar lead by paranormal investigator.

Duration of residency
The residency will take place over a week in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada in the autumn of 2020.

Disciplines supported and technical information
All disciplines are supported. 

Accommodation
Residents will be picked up in Ottawa and driven to the Ayatana residency house, where they will have a bed and bedding and will be driven to all activities. Meals will be provided.

Studio/ workspace
Indoor and outdoor workspace is available

Fees
Residency fee is $1300 USD

Expectations towards the artist
Residents are not expected to produce work during the program. Residents are invited to give a 20 minute artist talk to the group.

Application information
Application instructions are on the program website

Selection process
Residency places are limited to 6 artists. Selected applicants will be notified shortly after the application deadline.