South Carolina State Parks Artist-In-Residence Program 2026

The South Carolina State Parks Artist-In-Residence program invites artists to submit applications for a one-week residency in 2026. The program provides artists with the opportunity to gain inspiration from the natural and cultural resources of South Carolina state parks. The South Carolina State Park Service will provide lodging options including traditional cabins, Carolina Camper Cabins, or campsites. Traditional cabins include kitchen, bathroom, basic cooking equipment, electricity, water and linens, and sleep four to six people. Carolina Camper Cabins are one-room cabins that sleep four with beds, front porch, heating and air conditioning, indoor lights, electrical outlets and Wi-Fi service, but no running water or indoor restrooms. Standard RV campsites are equipped with water and 30-amp or 50-amp electric service. Transportation to and from the selected park is the artist's responsibility. Artists may also choose to stay in their own camper or RV at the selected park.

Participating artists must deliver an original artwork representative of their stay within 90 days of their residency. The original work will be displayed in cabins and other facilities throughout the park as deemed appropriate by the park manager. Collaborative proposals are considered. The program is open to South Carolina residents and non-residents. Artists must submit four digital images of their work created within the last five years. A non-refundable jury fee of $25.00 must accompany the application. Acceptable art forms include Basketry, Clay/Porcelain, Glass, Leather/Fiber, Original Printmaking, Metal Work, Oil/Acrylic, Pen/Ink, Photography, Stonework, Watercolor/Pastels, Woodwork and Other. Work that manipulates or disturbs park resources or uses materials from endangered or threatened species will be excluded. Collecting materials from state park property is not permitted. All work must be original and attributable solely to the artist(s). SCPRT employees are not eligible to apply.

A panel of state park representatives will review submitted images and selections will be made by score. Jury process will be completed by October 19, 2025, with notifications emailed by November 5, 2025. Acceptance contracts are due by December 1, 2025, and residency arrangements must be finalized by January 15, 2026. Each park is hosting only one or two artists for the 2026 season. Placement at parks will be determined by the medium each park is interested in displaying. For questions, contact Mikaela Owens at [email protected] or (803) 622-8981.