Studio Museum in Harlem seeks applicants for 2026-2027 Artist-In-Residence Program.

The highly acclaimed Studio Museum in Harlem recently made an exciting announcement. As of April 13, they are now accepting applications for their 2026-2027 Artist-in-Residence program. This annual residency is highly sought after, offering a unique 11-month program to three talented artists of African descent from all over the world, working in any medium.

In their Instagram post, the Museum explained, "The residency program provides artists with an unparalleled opportunity to nurture their craft within the walls of the Museum." They went on to share that selected individuals will receive valuable guidance from the institution, as well as professional development, research support, studio space, and a stipend that will be paid out throughout the duration of the residency. The 2026-2027 program will take place from November 2, 2026 to October 3, 2027, culminating in an exhibition at the Studio Museum in Harlem. Since its establishment in 1969, this program has supported over 150 artists of African and Afro-Latinx descent, helping to shape generations of contemporary talent.

In the 1980s, the then-director Mary Schmidt Campbell formalized the residency by setting a standard structure and cohort size. Artists selected for the program receive a studio space, a $37,500 stipend, and mentorship from both museum staff and visiting arts professionals. This program has been instrumental in filling a crucial gap by providing support to artists of color who may face financial and personal challenges while staying true to their creative vision.

The impact of this program extends far beyond Harlem and has been widely recognized within the art world. Sanford Biggers, a member of the 1999-2000 cohort, fondly remembers the camaraderie he shared with his fellow artists, Terry Boddie and Nicole Awai. He recalls the feeling of embarking on a new journey together.

Chakaia Booker, a member of the 1995-1996 residency, credits the program with helping her maintain the momentum she had built and providing her with opportunities to showcase her work outdoors. She also highlights the invaluable access to people and exhibitions that the residency offered. The Studio Museum in Harlem recently announced its 2026 Artists-in-Residence: Derriann Pharr, Simonette Quamina, and Taylor Simmons.

They will be the first cohort to work in the J. Bruce Llewellyn Artist in Residence Center, located at the Museum's new home, which opened in November 2025 and pays tribute to past residents. This is an exciting time for the Studio Museum in Harlem, and we cannot wait to see the incredible talent that will emerge from this residency program.