The Arizona State Parks Artist Residency Program is a collaborative initiative between Arizona State Parks and Trails (ASPT) and the Arizona Commission on the Arts (Arts Commission) funded by the Arizona Community Foundation and designed to immerse Arizona-based artists in the state’s natural ecosystems.
The program provides artists with dedicated time, space, and resources to create work inspired by local landscapes in State Parks, promoting aesthetic appreciation, environmental education, and community engagement.
By bringing artists to parks like Patagonia Lake State Park, the program fosters creative exploration that connects art with the environment, while encouraging the preservation and appreciation of Arizona’s unique natural and cultural heritage.
Program Details
Residency Duration
The Fall 2025 residency will span three weeks between October 29 – November 24, 2025, based on resident availability.
Artist Stipend & Materials Budget
The resident artist will receive the following:
- $7,000 Artist Stipend
- $1,500 reimbursable materials budget
Accommodations
Patagonia State Park will provide the following:
- On-site Housing in a cabin with fridge, microwave, AC, and WIFI
- On-site Workspace based on artist’s needs
- Full 24-hour access to park amenities
Expectations
The following are expected of the resident artist during the course of their residency:
- One required open studio session
- Opportunities for public programming
- Connection with locals relevant to the artist’s work
Eligibility
To be considered for this opportunity, applicants must be…
- at least 18 years old
- a resident of Arizona
Program Timeline
* Planning with Patagonia State Park team may take place virtually.
How to apply
When you’re ready to apply, click “Apply Now” below.
You do not have to complete the application in one session; at any point you can save a draft of your application and complete or submit it later.
Evaluation
Applications will be reviewed and scored by a panel of ASPT and Arts Commission staff according to the following criteria:
Artistic Vision and Alignment with Program Goals
The application should clearly articulate the applicant’s artistic practice and how it aligns with the residency’s goal of fostering artistic exploration through immersive experiences in Arizona State Parks.
Potential for Artistic Growth and Innovation
The application should demonstrate how the residency will facilitate the artist’s growth, expand their artistic practice, and potentially lead to new opportunities or innovative work.
The top 5 scoring applications will be discussed by the panel and a decision will be made based on the needs of the park.
The Arizona State Parks Artist Residency is a program of Arizona State Parks and Trails and the Arizona Commission on the Arts, funded by the Arizona Community Foundation.
Details
Organization/Company: Arizona Commission on the Arts
Website: https://azarts.gov/
Location: Arizona
Deadline: May 6, 2025
How to Apply:
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