Minnesota Center for Book Arts: Artist-in-Residence Program

Three Deadlines: (POSTMARK) and (ONGOING)

February 1, 2012: Residency Period April 1 to July 31
June 1, 2012: Residency Period August 1 to November 30
October 1, 2012: Residency Period December 1 to March 31

Minnesota Center for Book Arts
Artist-in-Residence Program
Minneapolis, MN


The Artist-in-Residence (AIR) program is designed to support selected artists by providing resources, space and equipment to assist in the creation and promotion of their work. In turn, artists provide technical and educational assistance to Minnesota Center for Book Arts. Residencies may be from two weeks to four months in duration.

Studios and equipment are available to facilitate work in papermaking, printing and bookbinding.

Participation in the program is based on the artistic merit of proposed projects as well as the degree to which artists further MCBA's artistic vision: to preserve the traditional crafts of fine printing, bookbinding and papermaking; champion book art as a vital contemporary art form; and demonstrate the critical role artists' books play in the advancement of cultural and visual literacy.

The Selection Process
Applications and supporting materials will be reviewed by MCBA staff and panelists from the book arts community. Criteria outlined below will direct the discussion. In the event that no viable candidates emerge, no residencies will be offered in the period.

Artist-in-Residence Benefits (truncated)

The Artist is encouraged to submit workshop or presentation proposals to MCBA, with applicability decided by the Adult Programs Manager. The Artist would be paid by contract for teaching workshops at a rate equal to other MCBA instructors.

From time to time, Artists-in-Residence execute special project work for MCBA or other associated individuals or groups. Under these conditions, Artists-in-Residence are compensated at a rate equal to similar MCBA contracts. Special project work is dependant on demand and is not ensured for all program participants.

If the Artist chooses to market his/her work produced at MCBA through MCBA's Studio Shop, MCBA may choose certain works for sale on a consignment basis. Joint promotion may be undertaken depending on the availability of funding for the project and whether such a project fits into MCBA's programming.

Artist-in-Residence Responsibilities (truncated)
The Artist will be responsible for keeping facilities and equipment clean for others' use and undertake regular maintenance and organizational tasks necessary for upkeep and communal studio use.

The Artist will provide his/her own supplies for works in progress.

With assistance from MCBA staff, the Artist will be responsible for assessment and selection of his/her studio interns. Initial contact generally requires a brief interview either by phone or personal meeting. The Artist, with the Artistic Director, will be responsible for task determination, scheduling, management and supervision.

Where possible, regular work hours should be established by the Artist-in-Residence.

A final project calendar should be submitted to MCBA at the beginning of the Artist-in-Residence's term.

Since MCBA operates under an open studio model, the Artist-in-Residence is expected to greet the public and give informal information sessions.

Full details on website: www.mnbookarts.org/artistsprograms/air

Download an Artist-in-Residence Application: www.mnbookarts.org/airapp.pdf

For further information about the residency, contact MCBA Executive Director Jeff Rathermel at 612.215.2525.

Minnesota Center for Book Arts
1011 Washington Ave S, Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Phone: 612.215.2520
Fax: 612.215.2545
Email: mcba@mnbookarts.org