2026 Artist in Residence – Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild invites artists of all disciplines to apply for a three-week residency in September 2026. Set within 40 acres of forested land in Lincoln, Montana, this program offers time, space, and community connection to create site-specific works inspired by the history, landscape, and culture of the Blackfoot Valley. The organization's mission is to provide an environment for the creation of significant artworks, both permanent and temporary, inspired by the environmental and industrial heritage of the Blackfoot Valley while fostering awareness and appreciation of the arts through community participation and education.

The residency takes place on site in Lincoln, Montana during the last three weeks of September 2026, with a required site visit of 3–4 days between April 1 and June 15, 2026. The total residency budget for 2026 is $50,000, which will support one or more artists within this yearly allocation. Artists are expected to create a site-specific artwork during the residency, participate in talks and educational activities, share their process with the community, and prioritize materials that are locally sourced or reflect Montana's landscape.

Applications must include: a resume or CV, a letter of interest (approximately 500 words, less than 3,000 characters) outlining your background and connection to the program, your vision for developing an installation, and your approach to community engagement; a proposed budget using the provided template; 5-15 images of relevant work; website or social media links; and names and contact information for two professional references. Selection criteria include artistic vision and quality of work, connection to place through use of materials and approaches that reflect the Blackfoot Valley's landscape and history, and commitment to community engagement through artist talks, open studios, and educational opportunities. The program welcomes applications from emerging and established artists working in sculpture, installation, environmental art, and other site-responsive practices, with no formal education requirement.