The Opportunity

Native Earth is seeking an Artistic Director to lead the organization through its next phase of growth and transformation.
Guided by our 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, the Artistic Director will help shape and advance Native Earth’s artistic vision, grounded in three core priorities:
• Identity, Autonomy and Place – strengthening Indigenous-led, sovereign spaces for creation and gathering
• Evolving Operations – building sustainable systems, teams, and partnerships
• Supporting the Art, the Artists, and the Artisans – expanding opportunities for Indigenous creators at all stages

This is a unique opportunity to steward a dynamic and interconnected artistic ecology that includes:
• Aki Studio, our performance and presentation hub
• Minogitoon Workspace – a flexible, artist-centred space for creation, rehearsal, and community gathering

The Role

The Artistic Director reports to the Board of Directors and is accountable for the artistic direction of the organization, its alignment with strategic priorities, values, and its relationships with artists and communities

Working within a collaborative co-leadership model with the Managing Director, the Artistic Director stewards the organization’s artistic vision and programming; builds and maintains relationships with Indigenous artists and communities; supports the development of new work; and expands Native Earth’s presence locally, nationally, and internationally.

The Artistic Director contributes to the organization’s overall direction and well-being, working closely with the Managing Director, staff, artists, and the Board. They advance the organization’s creative vision in alignment with its strategic priorities and support the implementation of Native Earth’s strategic direction in ways that are sustainable and responsive to the organization’s capacity. The Artistic Director is also expected to respond thoughtfully and ethically to changing circumstances while maintaining the integrity and direction of the company’s work.

Key Responsibilities:

Artistic Leadership & Programming
• Curate and oversee Native Earth’s artistic programming, including productions, presentations, and development initiatives
• Support artists through all stages of creation and presentation
• Guide the continued evolution of programs such as the Animikiig Creators Unit and Indigenous Producer Training Program (IPTP)

Community & Sector Engagement
• Build and sustain meaningful relationships with Indigenous artists and communities
• Act as a visible and engaged presence within the broader arts sector
• Represent Native Earth in public forums, partnerships, and national/international networks
• Advocate for Indigenous artists and arts practices

Organizational Leadership
• Work in partnership with the Managing Director to align artistic vision with operational and financial planning
• Collaboratively contribute to the development and implementation of organizational strategy
• Support a healthy, collaborative, and respectful work environment for staff and artists
• Engage with the Board of Directors, reporting on artistic activity and contributing to governance processes

Operations & Fundraising
• Participate in grant writing, reporting, and funding strategy in collaboration with the Managing Director
• Support fundraising initiatives and donor relationships alongside the Managing Director and team
• Contribute to the long-term sustainability and growth of the organization through shared leadership