Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts launched its Sound Art + Experimental Music Program in May 2019 with generous support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Embedded within Bemis Center’s renowned international Residency Program, this opportunity offers a unique experience for two artists working in sound, composition, voice, and experimental genres and tools. National and international artists participating in the program receive financial, technical, and administrative support, along with dedicated facilities for rehearsing, recording, and performing new works that expand the field of sound art and music. Two selected artists-in-residence will enjoy a generously sized, private live/work studio complete with kitchen and bathroom. Applicants may select which 2026 session to attend: Spring: Jan 21-April 17, Summer: May 20 - August 14, or Fall: Sept 10 - Nov 14. Awarded U.S.-based artists-in-residence receive a $1,250 USD monthly stipend, a $750 USD travel stipend, and a $2,500 USD materials budget. Due to the limitations of B2 visas (touring/visiting), international artists-in-residence are eligible to receive reimbursement of qualified expenses, including airfare, ground transportation, and meals. Sound Art + Experimental Music artists-in-residence have 24-hour access to Bemis Center’s Sound Studio, a 1,000 square foot shared workspace that includes a variety of instruments, microphones, and software to assist and expand creative processes. Selected residents will also have access to installation and production spaces and the Okada Sculpture & Ceramics Facility. For a list of current tools and equipment available to Bemis Residents, see here: https://bemiscenter.box.com/s/5bm982d3pjbgv6toyigd7y2oqn6k53hm
This is an independently-driven, process-based residency in a communal environment, fostering creative growth, experimentation, and supportive exchange. There are no expectations placed on residents to create or perform. Complete details can be found at bemiscenter.org/apply. Deadline: April 14, 2025 by 11:59 PM CST.
Residency Eligibility
Residency Experience Summary
Application Information
Residency opportunities are open to national and international artists 21+ years of age showing a strong professional working history.
Bemis residency alumni are allowed to re-apply after a five-year hiatus from the program.
Artists enrolled in an academic program during the time of the residency opportunity are not eligible to apply.
Small collaborative groups are eligible to apply. Please note, if selected, Bemis Center is only able to accommodate two members of a collaborative group to attend the residency and live on-site.
Bemis welcomes international artists to apply. Working knowledge of English is helpful as Bemis Center is unable to offer an interpreter.
no residency fees