CALL OVERVIEW

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Entry Deadline: Saturday, July 18, 2026, by 5 pm (EST)

Entry Fee: $0

 

Work Sample Requirements
Images | Minimum: 5, Maximum: 15
Audio | Minimum: 0, Maximum: 3
Video | Minimum: 0, Maximum: 3

Total Samples | Minimum: 5, Maximum: 21

 

Call for Artists

Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s, 2026-27 cycle

 

Call Description

The Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s supports contemporary artists who are self‑motivated, community‑minded, and eager to develop a focused body of work within a supportive creative environment. Located in the Capital Region of New York, the program offers artists a unique opportunity to work independently while engaging meaningfully with Arlene’s vibrant community of makers, students, and faculty over the course of a year‑long residency.

 

Each year, Arlene’s selects artists to develop a cohesive project that culminates in a solo exhibition in the R Gallery, a community‑engaged project, and participation in public‑facing programs that deepen connections between artists and the broader community. The AIR Program is committed to supporting a wide range of artistic voices and practices, including those historically underrepresented in arts spaces.

 

Residency Period

The residency runs annually from the start of October through the end of the following August. During this time, AIRs are expected to:

• Develop a cohesive body of work for their solo exhibition

• Participate in scheduled Guest Critiques

• Engage the public through community projects, hosting AIRwaves Podcast, and public events

• Take part in Spring, Fall, and Holiday Makers Markets at no charge

• Contribute to the creative life of Arlene’s through collaboration and community involvement

 

Provided Resources

Artists selected for the AIR Program receive:

• Free studio access during store hours

• Use of designated equipment and facilities (some exceptions apply)

• Access to staff and faculty expertise for technical and professional support

• Materials credit or discount at Arlene’s

• A solo exhibition in the R Gallery at Arlene’s after the completion of the residency

• Automatic inclusion in all Makers Markets during their tenure at no charge

• Promotion through Arlene’s social media, newsletters, and website

• Host AIRwaves podcast

• Opportunities for community exhibitions, field trips, and public engagement

Housing is not provided; AIRs are responsible for securing their own accommodations.

 

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following through Arlene’s online application portal (see below):

 

General Information

• Contact information

• Website and/or social media links

• Accessibility needs

 

Artist Information

• Artist bio

• Artist statement

• CV or résumé 

• Letter of Intent related to the body of work you would like to work on during your residency

  • You should also describe how your previous experience prepares you for this residency.

 

Residency Community Project Proposal

Your proposal should outline your vision for the residency and include:

• Project title

• Short description (2–3 sentences for public use)

• Detailed project description, including:

  • What the project looks like and how it will unfold including rough timeline

  • How the community will interact with it

  • How it aligns with your artistic goals

  • Plans for your community‑engaged project

  • Any anticipated outcomes or artworks

 

Work Samples/Portfolio

Provide documentation demonstrating your ability to complete the proposed project:

• 5–15 images with titles, dates, medium, and descriptions

• Up to 3 video or audio clips (3 minutes max each)

 

Eligibility Criteria

The AIR Program welcomes applications from artists 21+ years age working in any medium. A BFA or MFA is preferred but not required. 

 

Selection is based on:

• Strength and maturity of previous work

• Clarity and feasibility of the proposed project

• Demonstrated ability to work independently

• Commitment to community engagement

• Potential impact on Arlene’s community and audiences

 

Application Fee

There is no application fee or cost to participate in the AIR Program; however, all interested artists must complete the application process and be selected by the program facilitator, Andrew Ochal. 

 

How to Apply

• Complete the online 2026-27 Artist in Residence (AIR) Program at Arlene’s Application (found below) 

  • Applications for the 2026-27 residency cycle run through Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 5 pm (EST).

  • Interested candidates should review the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program Overview & Residency Requirements before applying.

 

If you have any questions about the AIR program or this application, please email Andrew at arlenesartist@gmail.com. Thank you for your time and interest in the AIR program and we look forward to reviewing your applications.