Funded Artist in Residence

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) is pleased to announce a call for applications for an Artist in Residence for the upcoming academic year (2026-2027).

This funded residency will run concurrent to the academic year, beginning 8/14/26 and concluding 5/14/27. We seek a dynamic and innovative artist to join us on our beautiful Silver City, NM, campus. This residency offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in an academic and local community steeped in the arts and surrounded by the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forrest wilderness. This unique residency offers a stimulating environment for artists to create and collaborate with WNMU faculty, students, and engage with the greater Silver City community.

WNMU will provide the AiR with a $20,000 stipend covering living expenses and materials during residency.

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) is pleased to announce a call for applications for an Artist in Residence for the upcoming academic year (2026-2027).

This funded residency will run concurrent to the academic year, beginning 8/14/26 and concluding 5/14/27. We seek a dynamic and innovative artist to join us on our beautiful Silver City, NM, campus. This residency offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in an academic and local community steeped in the arts and surrounded by the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forrest wilderness. This unique residency offers a stimulating environment for artists to create and collaborate with WNMU faculty, students, and engage with the greater Silver City community.

The AiR will be provided with:

-A $20,000 stipend will cover living expenses and materials during residency.

-A dedicated studio space on the WNMU campus. Additionally, residents can work with individual faculty to use the studios and equipment on campus. Studios include ceramics, design, painting, photography, and sculpture.

-The opportunity for a solo exhibition and artist talk at the McCray Gallery on campus .

Residents will be required to:

-Have an open-door policy during selected studio hours when they can talk with students.

-Donate a piece of their artwork, selected by the committee, to the WNMU permanent collection.

-Serve as juror for the annual WNMU student art show.

The residency term is from August, 14, 2026 to May, 14, 2027 in conjunction with the WNMU academic year.

Please submit your application materials no later than April 6, 2026 11:59pm MST.

For inquiries and additional information, please contact Assistant Professor Erin Wheary at erin.wheary@wnmu.edu.

Application Materials:

Interested artists should submit the following materials:

·       Portfolio (20 Images): Please include titles, dates, media, size, and a brief description of each piece (100 words or less).   

·       Letter of Intent: Compose a letter describing how the WNMU Artist Residency will specifically impact and contribute to your artistic goals and how you plan to utilize this opportunity. Personal artwork goals, potential collaborations, and the projects you plan to pursue should be addressed.  Please also address any equipment needs in context.  

·       Artist Statement: Please submit your current artist statement. 

·       Curriculum Vitae: Provide a detailed resume outlining your artistic background, education, exhibitions, and relevant experiences. 

·       Reference Contacts (3): Include contact information for three professional references familiar with you and your work. Please list your reference’s name, phone number, email address, and relationship to you. 

·       Website Link: Please provide a link to your artist website. 

·       Equipment and Studio Needs: Please detail any specific equipment or studio requirements essential for your artistic practice during the residency. 

Applicants are required to be citizens of the United States.