Crosstown Arts, situated in Memphis, TN, welcomes both visiting and local artists and curators to its multidisciplinary artist residency program, spanning various creative disciplines including visual arts, music, film, and literature. Set in an urban environment with shared spaces, the residency program promotes connection and socialization among residents and encourages engagement with the broader community.
Residencies afford artists 24/7 access to private studio spaces, along with complimentary use of shared art workspaces and music production suites. For live/work residencies, private living quarters are provided, complete with kitchen, laundry, and communal living areas.
Residents gain free access to Crosstown Arts’ on-site Shared Art workspace, equipped with a range of analog and digital fabrication tools and production resources.
All residencies are granted without charge, though artists are responsible for their own studio materials, travel expenses to and from Memphis. 2026 residencies sessions will run in Spring (Feb. 12 - May 12), Summer (Jun. 4 - Aug. 4), and Fall (Sept. 15 - Dec. 15).
Applicants must be at least 21 years old at the start of their residency. There are no specific project requirements, fostering an environment conducive to experimentation and artistic exploration. *Crosstown Arts Residency is not considering applications from alumni for the 2026 application.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
Applications are open via Slideroom from May 22nd - July 15 for all 2026 residencies the following year. Applicants may submit 5-8 work samples, an artist statement, and residency goals.
Residency applications for Crosstown Arts are now divided into four separate disciplines: music, visual arts, film/media, and writing. Applicants may choose to have one additional panelist in a separate discipline to their primary field to review their application.
Specialized residencies that include extra equipment for video/film editing or music production/editing are also available to those who apply.
Applications are scored by a rotating selection panel comprised of creative professionals. Residency notifications are released in early fall, based on the panel’s scores and recommendations with an emphasis on inclusivity and diversity.
A $200 refundable deposit is required per residents.