Art serves many functions during times of distress. It can soothe the creator, keeping one tethered to the routine of studio practice. It can help process big emotions and concerns, using the canvas – whatever that may mean to the artist – to visualize the swirl of thoughts and emotions that may be disrupting their daily life. And it can join the larger conversation, offering a perspective and a way to open important conversations. In short, art is essential. It is something to be carried out no matter how challenging things may seem around us.
In their own words: The Kimmel Harding Nelson Center for the Arts awards up to seventy juried residencies per year to established and emerging visual artists, writers, composers, and interdisciplinary artists from across the country and around the world. Residencies are 2 to 8 weeks in length. Each resident receives a $175 stipend per week, housing, and a private studio. To learn more, visit the website. Deadline for applications is March 1.
NXTHVN, co-founded by artist Titus Kaphar and investor Jason Price, is a New Haven-based arts institution supporting artists, curators, and local youth through fellowships, apprenticeships, mentorship, and professional development. Visit the website for more details. Deadline for studio and curatorial fellowship applications is March 3.
Watershed Center’s annual Salad Days fundraiser celebrates handmade ceramics and local food. Each year an artist is selected to create 500 shallow plates or bowls that are then taken home by fundraiser guests. To learn more about this unique opportunity, visit the website. Deadline for residency applications is March 7.
Praxis Center recognizes that art, artists and artistic work do not exist in a vacuum. We are committed to ensuring that no matter what the external factors may be, our artists have the skills and resources to continue building their practice and enter the artistic conversation.
Brainard Carey is an author, artist and educator. He is the director of Praxis Center for Aesthetics and is currently faculty at the School of Visual Arts in NYC. He has written seven books for artists, including Making it in the Art World. His seventh book, The Problems in the Art World: An Artist’s A-Z Action Guide, is available now.
Photo credit: Watershed Center for Ceramic Arts