Project overview
We are seeking a Mi’kmaw artist to develop original illustrations for a children’s book focused on sharing knowledge about Punamu (Atlantic Tomcod), the only fish represented in the Mi’kmaw calendar, within the Pekwitapa’qek (Bay of Fundy).
This project aims to bring authenticity and cultural integrity to the work through collaboration with a Mi’kmaw artist. Inspired by the model used by the Unama'ki Institute of Natural Resources for sharing Mi’kmaw knowledge with broader communities, the book is intended to serve as a bridge between generations, cultures, and communities. It will communicate knowledge about aquatic animal movements in the face of a changing climate while promoting cultural appreciation and ecological awareness.
The target audience for the book is TBD; however, anticipated to be between ages 6-10.
The book is being developed as part of Apoqnmatulti’k in partnership with the Confederacy of Mainland Mi'kmaq and is supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and the Marine Environmental Observation, Prediction and Response Network (MEOPAR).
About Apoqnmatulti’k
Apoqnmatulti’k is a collaborative partnership that brings together Mi’kmaw, local, and western scientific knowledge systems to better understand valued aquatic species in the Pekwitapa’qek (Bay of Fundy) and Pitu’pa’q (Bras d’Or Lake). Guided by Etuaptmumk (Two-Eyed Seeing), the initiative uses co-design, joint participation, and shared knowledge to enhance stewardship of culturally, commercially, and ecologically valued aquatic species and their habitats.
Scope of work
The selected artist will:
Create original illustrations for approximately 12–15 pages, including the cover
Work from a drafted manuscript and accompanying illustration concepts provided by the project team, while contributing creative direction and artistic interpretation
Collaborate with the project team and participate in feedback and revision cycles (approximately 2–3 rounds of revisions)
Participate in monthly project check-in meetings (virtual; however, in-person can be arranged, if needed)
Deliver final artwork in high-resolution digital format suitable for print and digital publication
Ensure artwork aligns with agreed cultural, educational, and visual goals
Deliverables
Draft illustrations for review
Final illustrations in print-ready, high-resolution digital formats
Source files for all final artwork
Timeline
Project start: Early August 2026
Draft illustrations due: Early September 2026
Final artwork delivery: November 30, 2026
Budget
Submissions should include a quote with their submission.
Rights & usage
The artist will retain moral authorship and be credited in the publication and related materials
The commissioning organization will receive a license to use the artwork for print and digital distribution of the book and associated educational/promotional purposes
Any additional use outside the scope of the project will be discussed with the artist
Ownership of original artwork and copyright/licensing details will be finalized through contract agreement with the selected artist
Submission requirements
Please include:
Portfolio (PDF or link) showcasing relevant illustration work, particularly children’s or storytelling-based work
Short statement of interest outlining why the project resonates with you
Brief description of artistic approach/style
Proposed fee or quote, including any additional costs associated with reproduction and usage rights for the illustrations
Availability from August–December 2026
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on:
Artistic quality and style
Alignment with the project vision
Experience with children’s illustration and/or storytelling
Understanding of cultural context
Budget and timeline feasibility
Submission Details
Please submit proposals by July 15, 2026 to:
Alanna Syliboy (asyliboy@cmmns.com)