A National Parks Program You Need To Know About
A Palette-able Partnership if You Ask Me
Hey Folks,
Jim here, can you believe it’s December already!? I hope everyone is enjoying this holiday season.
Today I wanted to talk about a program that tends to fly under the radar on our public lands, but is very worthy of your attention.
Easel-y Inspired: The National Parks Artist in Residence Program
Okay, I promise that’s the end of the puns.
Did you know that every year national parks, forests, and other federally-managed public lands sites are looking for artists to live and work in the parks for a period of time so that they can be inspired by their surrounding to do what they do best – create art?
Individual parks have their own programs (there are currently more than 50 offered by NPS sites) where artists are welcome to apply for the opportunity of a lifetime. The opportunities range from 3 weeks to a few months and offer to place artists within national parks in special accomodations.
Eligible artists are by no means limited to painters. Illustrators, photographers, musicians, authors, filmmakers, or any other artist is welcome to apply.
So How Does it Work?
The AiR program isn't simply about creating art; it's a comprehensive experience that blends creativity with conservation. Here's how it usually works:
Application & Selection: Artists apply for residencies at specific parks. Each park has its own criteria and selection process, often seeking artists whose work aligns with the park's environment and conservation goals.
Residency Duration: Residencies can vary in length, typically ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the park and the specific program.
Living & Working: Artists are provided accommodation within the park, often in historic or specially designated quarters. This unique experience allows artists to really connect with their surroundings and immerse themselves in their work.
Artistic Contribution: In return for the residency, artists often donate a piece of their work to the park. This artwork becomes a part of the park's cultural heritage, reflecting the unique beauty and spirit of the park.
Public Engagement: Artists engage with park visitors through public programs such as workshops, demonstrations, or talks. This allows visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the park and the role of art in helping tell its story.
Partnerships like this are truly a win-win for all involved. The artists gets the chance to work in some of the most spectacular natural surroundings found on the planet and the work they produce contributes to our shared heritage and our understanding of these special places.
If you travel to the parks frequently odds are that you may have seen an AiR workshop during one of your visits and without knowing it.
Learn More About Public Lands AiR Programs
Learn more about the BLM AiR Program
Learn more about the NPS AiR Program
Learn more about the USFS AiR Program
The National Park Arts Foundation
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My Closing Thoughts
I know it’s only December 6th, but don’t forget to see a show, look at some lights, watch a festive movie, enjoy a fire with some hot cider, or any of the other holiday things that you plan on doing. This month goes fast and before you know it you’ll be saying “I guess we’ll have to do that next year”.
– Jim
I saw someone doing a pottery demonstration in one of the southwest national parks a few years ago, she had quite a crowd really enjoying the process. I didn't realize it was part of this program, very cool. Were I younger this is absolutely something I'd be applying for, especially in some of the more remote parks.