The South Washington Watershed District (SWWD) is seeking a fine art aerial photographer and/or videographer to document and celebrate the landscapes, ecosystems, and inhabitants of southern Washington County. This 12-month residency allows for creative exploration across seasons, with the goal of fostering new perspectives on water resources and their value. The artist’s work will contribute to SWWD’s programs, culminating in a public exhibition in Fall 2025.
Information & Application Details
Deadline: February 14, 2025 (midnight)
Residency Term: May 2025 – April 2026
Stipend: $9,000 ($750/month)
Exhibition: Fall 2025 (venue TBD)
Location: South Washington Watershed District (Twin Cities East Metro)
Selection Notification: Expected by April 2025
Eligibility
Open to fine art aerial photographers and videographers.
Must hold a valid Part 107 Commercial Drone Certificate and maintain aircraft registration.
Must provide their own equipment and workspace.
Must carry commercial general liability insurance.
Theme
The residency focuses on capturing the watershed’s landscapes, water resources, and ecological diversity while promoting awareness and engagement with SWWD’s conservation efforts.
How to Apply
Submit application materials via email to Abby.Tekiela@swwdmn.gov by the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Submission Requirements
Letter of Interest (1-page PDF)
Artist Information
CV or resume (2-page PDF max)
Artist statement (1-page PDF)
Work Samples
10 recent samples (JPG, TIF, MP4, PDF)
Image/video inventory list (PDF)
Professional References (1–3 contacts)
Certification & Aircraft Registration (photocopy of Part 107 certificate & registration)
Selection Process
SWWD will evaluate applications based on artistic quality, relevance to the residency’s goals, and the artist’s ability to engage with the watershed’s themes.
Program Benefits
$9,000 stipend
Support from SWWD staff and access to regional parks for project development
Public exhibition in Fall 2025 (venue TBD)
Opportunity to contribute to water conservation efforts through art
Image Licensing
The artist retains full copyright and ownership.
SWWD will not take commissions on any work sold.
The artist must grant SWWD a licensing agreement for promotional use (with credit).
Contact & Resources
Residency Coordinator: Abby Tekiela
Phone: (651) 714-3712
Email: Abby.Tekiela@swwdmn.gov
Website link: https://swwdmn.gov/call-for-artists-air-2025/
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