Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I apply to be an Artist-in-Residence?

A: The Call for Artists for the program runs from November 1 to January 31 each year. Applications will be accepted during this three-month period through the CaFÉ site (www.callforentry.org) and the link to the application can be found on the Apply page on our website. We aim to post the link on or around November 1st each year.

Q: I am having technical difficulties with the application - what should I do?

A: We encourage all interested applicants to apply at least 5 days in advance of the January 31st deadline to ensure adequate time to troubleshoot technical difficulties. We are not able to add in applicants after the call closes. If you are having trouble with the system and are not able to resolve the issue using the helpdesk on callforentry.org, please email us at wefa_interpretation@nps.gov at least 5 days before the deadline and we will do our best to assist you. We may not be able to assist in the final days/hours of the open application, so plan accordingly.


Q: Who is eligible to apply to a residency at Weir Farm NHP?

A: Weir Farm NHP encourages applications from artists representing a wide range of perspectives, demographics, and media (e.g., painting, drawing, photography, printmaking, sculpture, fiber art, mixed media). Artists must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. Graduate & Doctoral students, emerging and professional artists aged 25+ at the time of application may apply.

Q: What are the requirements of the residency?

A: Selected artists are required to commit to the entire 4-week residency and check-in and check-out dates, provide one public program (a scheduled Open Studio), and abide by all park policies during their residency. Artists must fill out the National Park Service Volunteer Service Agreement Form, as all Artists-in-Residence are included in the park's volunteer program. Artists are required to provide a headshot and bio for use in press releases and web content. Aritsts must complete a post-residency survey. Selected artists are provided a handbook with more details about park policies and guidelines prior to their residency. For more specifics on requirements, be sure to read the entirety of the application before applying.

Q: Are artists required to donate a work of art following their residency?

A: No. Artists are not expected to donate any of their works to Weir Farm NHP. Weir Farm staff may take photos of you and/or your work during the residency with your permission. Images of artists and their work are used for social media posts, program documentation, and potentially park media (i.e. online or in publications like brochures, park website, e-flyers, etc.) to promote the AIR program.

Q: Is there a cost for artists who participate? or is there a stipend provided?

A: The only fee associated with this residency is the $35 Application Fee. Artists are responsible for the cost of travel to and from Weir Farm NHP. Artists are also responsible for all of their living expenses and the cost of shipping supplies or artwork to and from the site. Artists receive a $400 stipend for the duration of the Residency. The Artist will receive a check for half the stipend ($200) upon arrival at the Park. The second half ($200) will be provided after you complete your post-residency questionnaire evaluation. Stipends are generously provided by Park partner, the Friends of Weir Farm, to support travel and supply costs.

Q: Do you accept collaborations with more than one artist at a time?

A: No. We only accept one artist per month for the residency.


Q: Are there any restrictions on chemicals, materials, or tools?

A: The use of toxic chemicals or hazardous materials or methods is prohibited. We do not allow any open flame, fire, or wood-burning. We ask artists to let us know about chemicals and tools they plan to use prior to their residency so we can assess their safety and determine if they will be allowed to bring them and use them in the studio or on park grounds.

Q: I am interested in putting up installations in the park during my residency and using the landscape in my artwork. Is that allowed?

A: No. Weir Farm NHP does not allow any temporary or permanent installations on-site that would impact the historic landscape.

Q: How often can I apply to the residency at Weir Farm NHP?

A: You may apply each year. If you are placed on the waiting list and not offered a residency or must cancel your residency, you are encouraged to apply again. Artists chosen for a residency are invited to re-apply to the program in the 10th year following their first residency (for example a 2024 Artist-in-Residence can reapply for the 2034 program, but is not eligible before then.)

Q: Can my pets, children, spouse, or partner join me during my residency?

A: No. The program is designed for one person to stay in the Park. Overnight guests are not permitted. Guests (including friends, family, and spouses) who may be visiting during your Residency will need to find area accommodations. Absolutely no pets are allowed in any federal building, including the Caretaker’s House and AIR Studio. The only exception would be a pre-approved service animal.

Q: Can I sell my artwork in the park?

A: No. No solicitation of sales or transactions can be conducted on Park property.

Q: How are artists selected for the program?

A: A three-member jury of experts from the professional art world (academics, museum curators, gallery owners, professional artists, previous artists-in-residence) are selected to review applications. The panel of jurors will consider applications based on the following: Quality of work/artistic merit; Well defined, realistic project proposal; Selection of the cohort of six artists should represent a diversity of artistic mediums; Selected artists thoughtfully address the ‘Why Weir Farm’ question; Does the work foster experimentation or innovation?; Artists must commit to the full residency (4 weeks).

Q: If I am selected for a residency and need to cancel, can I defer to the following year?

A: No. Artists who cancel their residency will not be given priority for the following or future years' programs. You would need to reapply and compete should you decline or cancel your participation.

Q: What are the accomodations like?

A: The residence sits in the middle of the 68-acre Weir Farm NHP and is one of the Park’s many historic structures. You will find a comfortable living area with a small library, bedroom with a full-size bed, full bath, and fully equipped kitchen (full size fridge, stove, microwave, coffee maker, pots and pans, and all glasses and dinnerware). All linens (sheets/pillowcases, blanket and comforter, bath and kitchen towels) are included. Here is a link to a virtual 3-D tour of the Caretaker’s House. The AIR Studio is located near the residence. Large windows and north facing skylights provide ample natural light and there is adjustable electric lighting in the studio as well. There is a large deck off the back overlooking peaceful wetlands.The AIR Studio is supplied with an easel, tables, chair/stool, bathroom (with sink and toilet), and ample wall space. Here is a link to a virtual 3-D tour of the Studio. Both spaces are equipt with wi-fi and window-unit air conditioners.

Q: Do other national parks offer residencies?

A: Yes! Nationwide, more than 50 National Park Service sites host artist residency programs. Learn more by visiting the NPS Artist-in-Residence page HERE.