Short Description
The Mountain AIR Program is an artist residency developed by the Art in the Libraries Program at WVU Libraries. Building on the pilot residency in 2025, this initiative connects artists with the rich environmental archives held at the West Virginia & Regional History Center (WVRHC) to inspire new creative work and public engagement. By focusing on collections that document decades of environmental activism, conservation efforts, industry impact, and citizen response, this pilot residency supports artistic interpretations that reveal the ecological story of West Virginia.
Eligibility
The residency is open to all U.S.-based artists, with a preference for WVU alumni and those working in fields such as visual art, dance, writing, and cultural heritage (including curators and community-based practitioners). Proposals that highlight underrepresented narratives, elevate local knowledge, or explore the complex environmental history of the region will be given strong consideration.
Submission Requirements
- Statement of interest (500 words) describing:
- Proposed project
- Archival collections you plan to use (e.g., Environmental Archives or Larry Gibson Papers). Applicants are strongly encouraged to reach out to WVRHC staff with questions about the collections by using this form: https://westvirginia.libanswers.com/wvrhc.
- Public programming idea
- How this residency will contribute to your artistic development
- Estimated timeline and budget for supplies and materials up to $1,000 (understanding project may change during residency) (500 words max)
- Artist statement (200 words)
- 2-page resume or CV
- 5–10 digital images or work samples (300dpi or links)
How to Apply
Submit your application as a single PDF with subheadings to sally.brown1@mail.wvu.edu
Program Benefits & Awards
- $1,000 for materials and supplies upon contract agreement
- Up to $3,500 for transportation, lodging, and per diem meal expenses (reimbursement)
- $1,000 honorarium after program completion
Entry Fee
None
Location
Morgantown, WV, United States
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 28 November 2025
Website Link: https://exhibits.lib.wvu.edu/mountain-air-artist-in-residency
