Organizer Information
The National Gallery of Art’s Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts (CASVA) is a research institute dedicated to advancing scholarship in the history, theory, and criticism of the visual arts. Through its fellowship programs, the Center supports scholars conducting original research while providing access to the National Gallery’s collections, library, and wider scholarly community in Washington, D.C.
Title & Description
A. W. Mellon and Beinecke: Postdoctoral Fellowships
The A. W. Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowships and Beinecke Postdoctoral Fellowships are two-year residential fellowships supporting research and writing for publication in the history, theory, and criticism of the visual arts. Fellows may focus on art from any historical period or geographical area, with particular encouragement for projects addressing understudied areas.
During the first year, fellows develop and lead an intensive weeklong seminar for CASVA’s predoctoral fellows, emphasizing methodological questions related to their research. In the second year, fellows teach a course at a neighboring university while continuing their research and writing. The fellowships commence in alternating years.
Categories
- Visual Art
- Art History
- Art Theory
- Art Criticism
- Research & Scholarship
- Academia
Eligibility
The fellowship is open internationally and is awarded without regard to nationality or age. Applicants must have received a PhD between October 15, 2021, and October 15, 2026. Current National Gallery of Art affiliates are not eligible. Applicants cannot simultaneously apply for another Center fellowship while their application is pending or after receiving a fellowship.
Program Benefits & Awards
- $55,000 per academic year
- Allowances for medical insurance premiums, relocation, and travel
- Two-year residential fellowship, from September 2027 to August 2029
- Office in the National Gallery’s East Building
- Housing, subject to availability
- Access to the National Gallery’s library, art collection, and Washington-area research resources
- Participation in lectures, colloquia, and scholarly discussions
- Opportunity to lead a weeklong predoctoral seminar
- Opportunity to teach a university course during the second year
- Selected candidates may be invited to Washington for interviews in January 2027.
Application Fee
None
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 October 2026
- Interview period: January 2027, for candidates invited after preliminary selection
- Fellowship Period: September 2027–August 2029
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Additional Details
The fellowship is particularly suited to early-career scholars whose research makes a significant contribution to visual-arts scholarship, especially in understudied areas. The appointment cannot be postponed or renewed. Applicants should also note that this is a postdoctoral research fellowship rather than an artist production grant or exhibition open call.