OCAD University’s RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers is excited to announce Jenna FitzGerald and Annapoorane Rajagopal Valarmathy as the recipients of the 2026 Critical Distance Centre for Curators, Public Art Billboard and Exhibition Essay Career Launcher!

Jenna's work will be on display at 180 Shaw Street in August/September 2026 and will be accompanied by an essay written by Annapoorane which will soon be available to read on criticaldistance.ca

Recipients of the 2026 Critical Distance Career Launchers

Jenna FitzGerald bio:

Jenna FitzGerald is a multidisciplinary artist from Toronto whose work explores the intersection of technology and nature, drawing on both organic and digital imagery and materials. Her artworks explore impermanence in the digital age and create new mythologies to reveal the magic in the world all around us. 

Website

Instagram

Annapoorane Rajagopal Valarmathy bio:

"I’m passionate about designing systems, tools, and experiences that empower individuals and cultivate meaningful human connection. I view writing as an act of design - one that shapes dialogue, influences experience, and helps create positive change in a constantly evolving world.”

Website

LinkedIn


Learn more about our Career Launchers.