2026 Shenandoah National Park Artist in Residence

For over a century, artists have shared a profound connection with national parks. Their paintings and photographs have inspired conservation efforts, captivated audiences, and showcased the beauty of these treasured landscapes. Today, national parks continue to ignite the creativity of artists who, in turn, produce works that inspire millions—raising awareness and cultivating a spirit of stewardship for these remarkable public lands and historic sites.

Shenandoah National Park's Artist-in-Residence program offers artists a unique opportunity to live and create in this extraordinary setting. Through their artistry, the selected participants will craft works that enrich our understanding and appreciation of Shenandoah National Park and foster a deeper connection to its natural splendor and cultural heritage.

Shenandoah National Park's Artist-in-Residence program offers artists an opportunity to live and work in this exceptional environment for three weeks. The works completed during the program will deepen the understanding and appreciation of Shenandoah National Park. The Park's Artist-in-Residence program is supported by a generous donation from the Shenandoah National Park Trust.

Benefit to the Artists
This program provides the artist with uninterrupted time to pursue their own body of work and also the opportunity to engage and inspire the public through outreach. The artist has the opportunity to create works that promote an understanding of the need to preserve our national parks. Our hope is for artists to seek and share their artistic inspiration as they explore and experience Shenandoah National Park. Artists will receive a $1,200 stipend and up to $100 to purchase supplies for public programs.

Housing
Artists will have a rustic, furnished home to themself. Cellular connection is very limited, but wifi is available. 

Requirements for the program
The Artists-in-Residence will be required to present at least two public programs during their residency. Participants must also donate an original piece of art to the Shenandoah National Park Trust within six months of their residency. This piece should represent the artist's unique style and reflect their experiences during the residency.

Donated artworks may be showcased at local art galleries, visitor centers, and community outreach organizations, helping to promote awareness of Shenandoah National Park and the Artist-in-Residence program.

Artists are responsible for providing their own art supplies and must have access to a personal vehicle during their residency.

Dates for the Residency

• May 4 to May 25, 2026
• June 2 to June 23, 2026
• June 29 to July 20, 2026
• July 28 to August 18, 2026
• October 6 to October 27, 2026

Mission of the National Park Service:
The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The National Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.

Applicants must respond to several questions and share at least 2 samples of their work. A letter of reference is optional. 

Please Note:

• You MUST upload images/samples of your work to be considered
• You can be logged out due to inactivity without your application saving, consider saving your application answers elsewhere during this process to ensure your information is not lost before you have completed the application
• January 13 is the deadline to apply - under no circumstances will we extend this deadline or accept applications afterwards. We strongly recommend submitting your applications early in order to troubleshoot any problems that may arise. Please do not wait until the last day.

Artists including writers, composers, crafters, painters, photographers, sculptors, storytellers, musicians, videographers, poets, and all visual artists are encouraged to apply. 

Artists must have their own transportation to and within Shenandoah National Park for the duration of the residency.

Artists-in-Residence must be at least 18 years old and prepared to dedicate three weeks to creating and inspiring others largely independently in a semi-remote setting within Shenandoah National Park. Applicants should demonstrate a high level of proficiency and a strong commitment to their chosen artistic medium.