Denali Artist-In-Residence Program

The Denali Artist-In-Residence program was created in 2002 by the National Park Service and artist Kesler Woodward, Denali's first artist-in-residence and program advisor. The program continues a tradition of art and the parks that began in Alaska with the creation of Mt. McKinley National Park in 1917 (Denali in 1980). Each summer three to four artists are selected for a residency, and from that residency a piece is then donated to the Denali Art Collection for display at various venues throughout the park.

Professional visual artists are invited to pursue their work amidst the natural splendors of Denali Park. Residents stay at the historic East Fork Cabin (also known as the Murie Cabin) for ten-day periods from June through August. Located 43 miles into the park on the East Fork of the Toklat River between Sable Pass and Polychrome Pass, the 14' x 16' cabin is a rustic but well-equipped base with a propane heater, range, oven, refrigerator, bunk beds, and cooking equipment. There is no electricity or running water, but water jugs may be replenished at Park Ranger stations and showers are available at the Toklat Ranger Station 12 miles away. For 2011, the program will not accept applications from photographers, as another program exists for professional photographers.

A panel of artists and National Park Service personnel appointed by the Superintendent of Denali National Park reviews applications annually. Selection is made on the basis of required entry materials, vision, new and innovative ways of responding to the park, and recognized accomplishment. Entries will be accepted until 10 p.m. AKST on October 31, 2010. Notification of selections will be made by December 15, 2010. For further information, contact Timothy Rains, Park Ranger, Media Specialist, at [email protected] or 907-683-6435.