John O. Calmore Creative Activism Artist Residency

The McColl Center's internationally acclaimed Artist-in-Residence program serves as a catalyst for growth for emerging and mid-career artists. The John O. Calmore Creative Activism Artist Residency at McColl Center seeks to honor the legacy of John O. Calmore, a pioneering figure who, after excelling at Stanford University and Harvard Law School, dedicated his life to combating racial injustice and poverty through both legal practice and academia. Drawing from his deep understanding of social issues, Calmore crafted a distinctive approach to critical race theory and social justice lawyering, encouraging lawyers to transcend traditional avenues of advocacy and challenge systemic inequalities in innovative ways. 

In this spirit, the residency calls upon citizen-artists worldwide, aged 21 and above, with a demonstrated commitment to socially and politically engaged artmaking. We welcome diverse artistic themes and disciplines rooted in the principles of risk-taking, creative expression, and critical thinking  The culmination of this residency will be an exhibition in Toronto, Canada, serving as a testament to the power of art to inspire social action, problem-solving, and community connection.

Artists-in-residence receive private housing adjacent to McColl Center, a large-scale private studio in our historic building in Uptown Charlotte, curatorial guidance, marketing and PR support, and a generous stipend. While in residency, our artists have the freedom to fully focus on artistic research, exploration, and creation while also engaging with McColl Center’s Igniters community and the local creative sector.

This residency will take place during the Winter-Spring 2025 term and will run from January 7 - April 14, 2025.

*The deadline for applications has been extended to June 21, 2024.