Fernie Alpine Resort is seeking a local artist to help capture the ski area’s visual identity for the upcoming winter season. The British Columbia resort has opened applications for its Featured Local Artist program, offering one Elk Valley artist the opportunity to create an original design that will be turned into limited-edition merchandise. Applications opened on August 14th and will remain open until 9am on September 15th, 2026.
Fernie Alpine Resort Wants a Winter-Inspired Design
The selected artist will create an original piece inspired by winter at Fernie Alpine Resort. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from skiing and snowboarding, the iconic Lizard Headwall, Fernie’s five famous bowls, lift infrastructure, or another concept that captures the character of the ski area.
The artwork must clearly represent Fernie Alpine Resort rather than just depicting Fernie or the broader Elk Valley. It will be placed on merchandise sold at the Sports Alpine Retail shop throughout the 2026-2027 winter season. Artists can use no more than three colors. Designs must be suitable for screen printing and must work effectively on apparel.
Artist Will Receive $750 and Resort Exposure
The artist chosen for the project will receive a $750 artist fee and significant exposure throughout the season. Wall display space will be provided inside Slopeside Café for a featured artist gallery and a dedicated artist profile page will be created on the Fernie Alpine Resort website.
The resort also intends to promote the artist and their work through social media and other marketing opportunities. Of course the selected artist will receive two complimentary limited-edition t-shirts featuring the final design. In exchange for the fee and promotional opportunities, the artist will give Fernie Alpine Resort a license to reproduce and use the selected artwork on merchandise and marketing materials.
Deadline Set for September 15
Applicants must live within the Elk Valley during the 2026-2027 winter season. Eligible communities include Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford, Elko, Jaffray, Grasmere, and the immediate surrounding areas. Applicants must submit contact information, a short biography, a statement explaining their interest in the program, and a portfolio or website links when available. They must also provide a concept description and an image or rough sketch showing how they would interpret Fernie Alpine Resort.
The resort plans to select the Featured Local Artist on September 23rd and final artwork will be due by October 13th. Limited-edition merchandise is expected to launch at the beginning of the 2026-2027 winter season. Those interested in applying can submit their application through Fernie Alpine Resort’s online application form before the September 15th deadline.