Open AIR is a place-based Artist-in-Residence program that connects artists from all disciplines and origins with culturally, historically, and ecologically significant locations through collaborative partnerships in Montana.
With innovative opportunities available in places such as remote wilderness areas to historically significant sites closer to town, artists can draw inspiration from a regional community dedicated to preserving place, environment, and the arts.
In 2023 Open AIR has four sessions: Spring, Summer, Summer II, and Fall. We have residencies at 13 different sites in Montana, including; American Prairie, Lewistown; Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Wilderness; Flathead Lake Biological Station, Polson; Travelers' Rest State Park, Lolo; Historic Clark Chateau, Butte, MT; Philipsburg, MT; Hamilton, MT. In Missoula, Open AIR has residency sites at the Missoula Public Library, Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium, Garden City Harvest, Moon-Randolph Homestead, Home ReSource, and Montana Natural History Center.
Each residency provides a unique opportunity for artists to be embedded in a site that allows the artist to engage with place, and the communities and resources associated with each site. The residency is free, and housing and a modest stipend are provided. Artists are responsible for transportation and food.
Spouses/partners allowed for full stay (non-collaborators)
Children allowed for full stay
Stage of Career
Any stage of career
Emerging
Mid-career
Established
Additional Expectations/Opportunities
Participate in public programming
Give artist talk or presentation
Lead workshop for the public
Other
Residency Experience Summary
Accessible Housing
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Inaccessible
Meals Provided
Residents have access to shared kitchen
Residents have access to private kitchen
Studios/Special Equipment
Private Studios
Shared Studios
Studios/Facilities Accessibility
ADA Compliant
Partially Accessible (50% or more)
Inaccessible
Type of Housing
Private housing on campus (individual apartment/cabin/house)
Private housing off campus (individual apartment/cabin/house)
Private bedroom in a shared housing facility on campus
Application Information
Additional Eligibility Information
Open AIR accepts artists of all disciplines, nationally and internationally at any stage in their career, 18 years or older.
Number of Artists Accepted in Most Current Year
22
Artist Stipend
35
US Dollar (USD)
Travel Stipend/Material Stipends
Residency Fees
0
US Dollar (USD)
Fee Details
The Open AIR stipend for artists is $35 per day. The total amount varies based on the length of the residency.
The application fee is $25 for Montana residents and $30 for people living outside of Montana for three site choices. Applicants can apply to two additional sites for an extra $10.
