Short Description

Open AIR provides placed-based Artist-in-Residence at inspiring locations across Montana. Read this page to learn more about our unique program and opportunities.

Open AIR is a place-based residency that connects artists from across disciplines with unique sites in Montana. Selected artists will have the opportunity to create at a unique site for a multi-week residency. During their residency, artists can connect with the individuals stewarding that site and develop unique work in relation to the place they are in residence. (Artists apply for what site they would like to be considered for.)

The Open AIR Residency is a wonderful opportunity for artists to take critical time and space to develop their practice in a supported environment. Artists-in-Residence (AIRs) will have opportunities to engage in professional development, including exhibitions and public engagement. AIRs will additionally have the opportunity to learn from and develop connections with other artists, meet new community members, and learn about unique aspects of the history, ecology, and culture of this region.

Eligibility

Artists of all disciplines living and working in the United States and abroad are eligible to apply.

  • Artists must be 18 years old to apply.
  • We strongly encourage Indigenous Artists and members from other underrepresented groups to apply to Open AIR residency opportunities.

Artists are selected by a team of jurors and considered on the basis of merit, excellence, and best fit to site. Jurors consider your work samples and commentary on research as it relates to a site to determine the best fit. Applicants selected for the final round of decision-making will be required to participate in a phone-call interview.

Submission Requirements

  • Samples of your work. 5-10 images or adequate samples for non-visual mediums. No file larger than 1 GB.
  • An abbreviated bio suitable for media and communications.
  • Description of your creative practice (500 words max).
  • Creative practice resume.
  • Select 3-5 residency sites and include responses to which sites align with your interests and intents.
  • Consider workshop ideas you might like to offer to the community (not required).
  • Take extra time to fill out and submit the application.

How to Apply

Online Application

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Access to a studio space in a unique location
  • Housing to all artists coming from outside of the town of residency
  • Community engagement and professional development opportunities where artists can present/share about their work
  • Listing on our website and promotion on our media and communications channels.
  • A chance to connect with members of the community
  • Modest stipends for every artist. $35/day for every day of the residency.

AIRs in Missoula will have access to Community Resources, including:

Entry Fee

The application fee is $30.

Location

Missoula, United States

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: 3 December 2025

Website Link: https://www.openairmt.org/info

AccommodationResidencyStudio