2026 North Louisiana Arts Interchange

The North Louisiana Arts Interchange is a "baby residency" program that allows artists to explore new creative experiences without significantly disrupting their daily lives. Launched by the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation in partnership with the North Central Louisiana Arts Council, the program accommodates practicing artists, educators, students, and aspiring full-time artists. It brings together eight artists to collaborate, fostering deeper understanding and new creative connections.

The program runs from March 16 to September 11, 2026. Participants engage in weekly online meetings via Zoom from March 16 to June 1 (Mondays at 6:00 PM Central Time), with an in-person launch event on March 21 at Gilbert Center in Ruston, Louisiana. During weeks 1-7, artists complete collaborative exercises and activities with rotating partners. In week 8, participants vote to select their final project partner. Each pair receives a $200 stipend to develop their artwork. The final projects are exhibited at Gilbert Center Gallery from July 27 to September 11, 2026, with a public reception on August 20.

The total program cost is $75 ($25 application fee and $50 program fee). Scholarship funding is available for artists unable to pay more than the application fee. Applicants must be 18 years or older, U.S.-based visual artists, proficient in English, and have reliable internet access. Special emphasis is given to North Louisiana artists and those from surrounding areas (East Texas, South Arkansas, Central Mississippi, and South Louisiana). Applicants must be able to attend in-person meetups in Ruston or within a day's travel. The application deadline is March 1, 2026, and requires a portfolio of 5-20 work samples (images, video, or audio), resume/CV, artist statement, and a statement about your desire to participate.