Announcing the 2026 Edgar Heap of Birds Family Artist Residency

About the Open Call

Applications are now open for the spring 2026 Edgar Heap of Birds Family Artist Residency at the Tyler School of Art and Architecture. The Tyler School of Art and Architecture invites applications for a spring 2026 residency in the Art Department, which encompasses undergraduate and graduate programs in Ceramics, Fibers and Material Studies, Glass, Metals/Jewelry/CAD-CAM, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, and Sculpture. The residency duration is flexible, ranging from one to five months, and will be scheduled within the spring 2026 semester (January–May 2026) based on the selected artist’s availability. The residency will be awarded to an artist whose work is primarily focused on the history and lived experience of North American federally recognized tribal citizens and who exemplifies the art and activism of the artist Edgar Heap of Birds in bringing attention to the lives, struggles and triumphs of Native Americans. The artist in residence will have the opportunity to mentor and advise Tyler students. The residency will culminate in an exhibition to be held in the Edgar Heap of Birds Family Gallery in Temple Contemporary, Tyler’s center for exhibitions and public programs. This program is made possible through the generosity of the Edgar Heap of Birds Family. Additional support is provided by Sandy Cadwalader.

What is Offered

Individual studio, 24-hour access to shared studio facilities and equipment, $1,500 materials budget, Opportunity to teach, mentor, and/or advise students, Access to Temple University’s 4,000,000 volume libraries, Participation in a solo exhibition, Stipend of $3,500 per month. Residents will be responsible for securing their own housing during the residency and for shipping costs for artwork produced during the residency or for the exhibition.

Requirements

Artists whose work is primarily focused on the history and lived experience of North American federally recognized tribal citizens and who exemplifies the art and activism of the artist Edgar Heap of Birds. Required application materials: Application form, Cover letter, Resume or CV, 20 images of artwork with image identification list, Artist statement, Contact information for three references.

How to Apply

To apply, please visit https://temple.slideroom.com/#/Login to create an account and complete/upload the following materials by September 22, 2025: Application form, Cover letter, Resume or CV, 20 images of artwork with image identification list, Artist statement, Contact information for three references.