Short Description
Founded in 1986, Hand Papermaking Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing traditional and contemporary ideas in the art of hand papermaking through its publications—semi-annual journal with tipped-in paper samples, quarterly newsletter, limited-edition handmade paper portfolios, and other
educational formats—all intended to preserve, inform, inspire, and celebrate the transformative act of hand papermaking.
The Black Writers Fellowship: Researcher is offered annually to a Black writer who proposes a research topic relevant to hand papermaking and indicates an ongoing investment in research and inquiry in the field. The article will be long-form and eligible for publication in Hand Papermaking magazine, Summer 2027 issue. The Researcher will receive a $1,000 award and a fellowship stipend of up to $1,000 for
expenses incurred, including but not limited to research travel, resources, transcription or translation services, site visits, workshop or conference attendance, and other professional development opportunities. In addition, the Researcher will be supported by regular meetings with a fellowship coordinator and a collaborative working relationship with Hand Papermaking magazine editor Mina Takahashi. There is no fee to apply for this fellowship.
Eligibility
Eligibility is limited to self-identified Black writers.
Submission Requirements
● A cover letter
● Curriculum vitae
● A research proposal and an outline for carrying out the study or project; 600-word maximum. Include a description of proposed research methods.
Optional: a draft budget for the fellowship stipend.
● Two relevant writing samples (can be but not limited to essays, research papers, excerpts from a dissertation); not to exceed 3,000 words in total.
How to Apply
Prepare all materials in one PDF and email to: bwfresearcher@handpapermaking.org
Program Benefits & Awards
● A $1,000 award
● Fellowship stipend of up to $1,000
● Opportunity for a published article in Hand Papermaking magazine, Summer 2027 issue
● Exposure of your research and writing to a global community of hand papermakers, artists, scholars, and professionals through our print and online publications
● Opportunities for career advancement through connections with Hand Papermaking’s network as well as professional development experiences
● Increased knowledge and skills in the editorial process and scholarly publication field through a collaborative working relationship with Hand Papermaking magazine editor Mina Takahashi.
Entry Fee
None
Location
United States
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 10 October 2025
Website Link: https://www.handpapermaking.org/post/announcing-the-2026-black-writers-fellowship-program
