2026 Program Application Now Open

The Demuth Museum is a nonprofit arts organization in Lancaster, Pennsylvania working to preserve Charles Demuth’s (1883-1935) legacy, amplify contemporary artists’ voices, and inspire creative exploration and expression. The Demuth Artist Residency program was created to engage with an artist focused on drawing and/or painting to create a new body of work that’s rooted in our collection and artistic community. The residency program will support our mission by fostering deeper connections with contemporary artists and connecting today’s art world with Demuth’s pioneering style and vision for American Art.

LENGTH OF STAY: 6 Weeks - 6/29/2026 - 8/9/2026

TIMELINE:

• Application Deadline: March 23, 2026

• Notification of Selection: By April 17, 2026

• Residency Dates: June 29 - August 9, 2026

• Public lecture: July 16, 2026

• Open Studio of created artworks : August 6-8, 2026

AMENITIES: 

• Access to a large 3rd floor private studio located next door to Charles Demuth's home & studio, now the Charles Demuth Museum

• Access to the Museum’s collection for private viewing and study of original artworks

• Open Studio public event August 6-8, 2026. Highlighting the artworks created during the Residency

• The purchase of a selected artwork for the Museum’s collection

• Opportunity to connect and receive critique from other Lancaster based Artists / Creative Professionals *optional upon artist request

• Housing reimbursement up to $3,300 for length of residency.

• Honorarium of $1,500.00 provided by the Demuth Museum

• $200.00 gift card to curio. Gallery & Creative Supply for material needs

RESIDENCY COSTS:

• One time application fee of $35.00

• Application fee may be waived for need based applicants

• Travel costs to and from residency paid for by applicant

• Housing to be booked by applicant, will be reimbursed by the Demuth Museum to maximum of $3,300

• Shipping of any needed materials and equipment paid for by applicant

• All meal costs paid for by applicant

RESIDENCY GUIDELINES:

• Artist must be able to complete full 6 week residency term

• Artist will engage in an public lecture introducing themselves, detailing their interests, motivations, and plans for their time at the Demuth

• Artist will hold an “Open Studio” public event at the conclusion of their residency

• If Artworks created during the residency are made available for purchase, all sales must be handled and completed by the Demuth Museum, 30% of any artwork sold go to the Demuth Museum

Application Requirements

• Provide a letter of intent for their stay at the Demuth Residency

• Current Resume/CV

• Address, phone number, and email of two professional references

• 14-20 high quality images of completed works

• Artist may be asked for an interview with selection committee (virtual)

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to any Artist with a focus in Drawing or Painting. At this time, we are not accepting sculpture or installation based submissions

• No degree or proof of formal/professional arts education is required, but a track record of professional activity is expected

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the residency period. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship; therefore, international applicants must already have appropriate authorization to work in the U.S.