Funded Artist Residency 2025

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) invites applications for an Artist in Residence for the 2025-2026 academic year. This funded residency runs from August 14, 2025 to May 14, 2026 on the WNMU campus in Silver City, New Mexico, surrounded by the 3.3 million-acre Gila National Forest wilderness.

The residency provides a $20,000 stipend to cover living expenses and materials, a dedicated studio space on campus with access to ceramics, design, painting, photography, and sculpture studios, and the opportunity for a solo exhibition and artist talk at the McCray Gallery. Residents will collaborate with WNMU faculty and students and engage with the greater Silver City community.

Residents are required to maintain an open-door policy during selected studio hours for student interaction, donate a piece of artwork to the WNMU permanent collection, and serve as juror for the annual WNMU student art show. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Application materials include a portfolio of 20 images with titles, dates, media, size, and descriptions; a letter of intent addressing how the residency will impact your artistic goals and any equipment needs; an artist statement; curriculum vitae; three professional references with contact information; a website link; and details of any specific equipment or studio requirements. The entry fee is $20. The application deadline is March 15, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. For inquiries, contact Assistant Professor Erin Wheary at [email protected] or (575) 538-6507.