About the Open Call

Craigardan is currently accepting applications for its 2026 residency program. All applicants are required to read the 2026 Residency Program Brochure before applying, which contains the most current residency information. Please note that winter residencies are not available while the new Main House is under construction, with applications for winter 2027/2028 expected to open in spring 2027. The application period opens on September 1st, with a deadline of January 15th at 6 pm EST for summer residencies. Applications received after this time will be reviewed for a waitlist. Final notifications for residencies, internships, scholarships, and fellowships are made via email by February 15th. Accepted residents must submit signed forms and a 50% non-refundable deposit by March 1st to secure their spot, with final payments due 60 days prior to the scheduled residency. Craigardan offers a sliding scale scholarship program based on individual need, allowing applicants to choose from Supporting ($1850/week, no scholarship), Sustaining ($1000/week after $850 weekly scholarship), or Supported ($500/week after $1350 weekly scholarship) options. Scholarships are competitive. Additional financial assistance includes Work Exchange (covers $200/week for 10 hours of work), Teaching Fellowships ($3700 towards a minimum two-week residency, requiring a public course), Master Artist Fellowship ($3700 plus $500 honorarium), Trillium Fellowship ($3700 plus $500 honorarium), JBL! Fellowship ($2700 scholarship plus $1000 fellowship and $500 grant from John Brown Lives!), First Peoples Fellowship (up to $3700 plus $500 honorarium), and Alumni Fellowship (amount varies). All accepted applicants are responsible for personal expenses, studio materials, supplies, and transportation. Residencies are 2 weeks or longer, starting and ending on a Monday, and applicants can specify preferred months (May-October) and dates. Cancellation policy states deposits are non-refundable, and refunds for final payments are not guaranteed but may be issued if a spot is filled from the waitlist. Group applications require each artist to apply individually, noting their group affiliation. The program supports various artistic and scholarly fields including Ceramic Arts, Literary Arts, Visual Arts, and Culinary Arts.

What is Offered

Craigardan offers residencies of 2 weeks or longer with various funding options including sliding scale scholarships, work exchange, and competitive fellowships (Teaching, Master Artist, Trillium, JBL!, First Peoples, Alumni) which can include honorariums and grants. Residents gain access to studio space, a supportive community, and potential opportunities to teach or participate in public events.

Requirements

Applicants need a Resume or CV, a Letter of Intent, and examples of their work (5-10 images, 3 writing samples up to 2000 words each, 2+ sample menus, or publications/research materials), all in PDF format. Specific fellowship applications may require additional materials like a class proposal or statement of need. All materials must be prepared before filling out the online application form.

How to Apply

Applicants must prepare supporting materials (Resume/CV, Letter of Intent, work samples in PDF format) and read the 2026 Residency Program Brochure. Then, complete and submit the online application form between September 1 and January 15. Finally, schedule an informal Zoom call with staff via the confirmation email. An application fee of $25 is required, but waivers are available upon request.