Artist in Residence Program

About the Open Call

Established in 1980, Bernheim’s internationally renowned Artist in Residence Program offers visual artists of all mediums the opportunity to live and create works inspired by Bernheim’s wondrous natural environment. The program aims to connect visitors to new and exciting experiences that spark curiosity and ignite wonder while expressing the artistic side of Bernheim. Up to 4 artists are selected annually. One residency is dedicated to an artist living in Kentucky or nearby counties in Southern Indiana, and another to an artist whose work addresses environmental issues and the climate crisis. Artists are encouraged to explore ideas that reinforce Bernheim’s mission of connecting people with nature, and to use their residency to take risks, experiment, and explore new avenues in their own work. The Environmental Artist in Residence program specifically invites artists to be a voice for nature, exploring themes such as excessive heat, drought, flooding, extreme weather, food insecurity, displacement, environmental justice, and biodiversity loss, making the science of climate change and global warming more tangible and accessible through art.

What is Offered

Opportunities to live and create works inspired by Bernheim’s natural environment. Up to 4 artists are selected for residencies annually.

Requirements

Open to visual artists of all mediums. One residency is dedicated to artists currently living in Kentucky or nearby counties in Southern Indiana. One residency is dedicated to an artist whose work addresses environmental issues and the climate crisis. Artists are encouraged to explore ideas that reinforce Bernheim’s mission of connecting people with nature.

How to Apply

Applications for Bernheim’s 2026 Residency Program will be accepted from September 23 through December 1, 2025. Apply via the provided 'Apply Now' link, which directs to bernheim.slideroom.com.