Open AIR
Open AIR is a 501 c 3 nonprofit organization that fosters creative collaboration in Montana. With headquarters in Missoula, MT, we serve urban and rural areas of Montana.
Our mission is to connect diverse communities with creativity through educational, collaborative, and place-based initiatives. Our vision is to strengthen the creative capacity of Montana and foster experiences that are culturally vibrant, healthy, and intellectually vigorous.
Open AIR is best known for its unique 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 have the opportunity to draw inspiration from a regional community dedicated to preserving place, environment, and the arts.
Residency Program Information
Residency Program Summary
Application Information
Open AIR is pleased to announce our Call for Artist applications is now open! Open AIR is best known for its unique place-based Artist-in-Residence program, which connects artists from all disciplines and origins with culturally, historically, and ecologically significant locations through collaborative partnerships in Montana.
We are now accepting applications for Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Spring 2026. Apply now to be an Artist-in-Residence at one of Open AIR's 11 residency sites in Montana! Residencies are open to artists working in all mediums and career stages.
Deadline to apply: December 3, 11:59 PM.
Visit our website to learn more: https://www.openairmt.org/info
In addition to continued Artist-in-Residence opportunities at unique sites like the UM Flathead Lake Biological Station, Moon-Randolph Homestead, and a remote location in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, we are excited to announce two new residency opportunities in 2025! We will be partnering with the Rocky Mountain Gardens in Missoula, MT, and Hungry Hill in Butte, MT.
About the 2025 new Artist-in-Residence Opportunities:
Rocky Mountain Gardens is a project of the Missoula County Department of Ecology and Extension (MCDEE). Missoula County Department of Ecology & Extension strives to cultivate resilience and inspire growth by empowering Missoula County residents through hands-on education and sustainable practices. A space for education and contemplation, the gardens are free and open to the public.
The Rocky Mountain Garden Residency will occur summer: June 9 - July 20, 2025
Butte, MT residency is a collaboration between Hungry Hill and the Historic Clark Chateau. Artists will have access to a ceramic studio space and the possible access to a printmaking studio. Performing artists will have access to the music room at the Historic Clark Chateau.
The Butte, MT Residency will occur fall: September 29 - Nov 2, 2025
Visit Open AIR’s website to learn about residency opportunities: openairmt.org/info
In addition, the website includes information on the 2025 summer and fall sessions and spring 2026 and a list of Open AIR’s 11 different site partners.
- The application fee is $30. Artists can add additional sites for an extra charge.
- There is NO CHARGE for artists to participate in the residency.
- Artists are responsible for travel and food costs.
- Modest stipends for every artist. $35/day for every day of the residency.
Accessibility
Many of our partnering sites are ADA-approved. Please contact program@openairmt.org to discuss individual concerns.
Housing & Accomodation
Studio & Facilities
Each site has varying facilities and studios - visit Open AIR's website for more information on each site:
https://www.openairmt.org/opportunities