Call for Artists (And Their Families): DelArt Family-in-Residence Program

The Delaware Art Museum’s Family-in-Residence program invites an artist(s) and their family to conceptualize, design, and create a long-term interactive art installation in the Museum’s family gallery, Kids’ Corner. During the Residency, the artist(s) and their family collaborates with each other, Museum staff, and the public to construct the installation. The Residency affords artists the opportunity to work alongside their family to create a family-friendly environment for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Installations are on view for approximately two-years. The Residency includes concept development, installation time, exhibit time, an opening reception, and resident-led family workshops. Installation takes approximately 2-6 weeks depending on the resident family’s availability and the Museum’s schedule. The Family-in-Residence receives a $10,000 honorarium. The Museum provides staff and facility support and up to $10,000 in reimbursable supplies. Funds for travel and lodging are not available at this time. The selected resident family will collaborate with Museum staff to realize the artists’ vision for the space.

Read more about the history of the Family-in-Residence program on our blog: A Space for Creative Play: Kids’ Corner at the Delaware Art Museum

Eligibility

  • Identify as a family unit (e.g. kin, blended, extended, cohabiting, couples, chosen, etc.). We are open to interpretation and encourage diverse families to apply.
  • Artist’s style and medium capable of translating into a family-friendly interactive experience.
  • Capable of constructing and installing with minimal support.
  • Strong vision for how all family members will be involved.
  • Demonstrate a sense of wonder and consideration towards child development, learning differences, and accessibility needs. Committed to DEIA values. Resides within a commutable distance from the Museum.
  • Ability to follow deadlines, take guidance, and come up with creative solutions that overcome barriers.

Application Process

1. Complete online application by June 10, 2023

2. Submit at least 10 work samples by sharing links to work online or uploading files with application in the following format:

  • Title each document with LastnameFirstinitial_samplenumber e.g. SmithJohn_sample1.jpg
  • Acceptable formats include: Photos as a .jpg and .png, video resolution of 1080p or .mp4, or a pdf with photos and links. Optional: Additional work by other family members may be included.

Selection process

A limited number of applicants will be selected to interview with Museum staff May 30 – June 16, 2023. The selected resident family will be notified Friday, June 16, 2023 at which point, the family can begin working on a concept for the space. Museum staff will provide guidance throughout the process and will have final approval of the concept (including but not limited to; theme, materials, accessibility consideration) to ensure safety and that the concept fulfills the purpose of the space.

Proposed dates for 2023-2025 installation (please note these dates are tentative and subject to change)

Applications due: Friday, June 10, 2023

Interviews will take place between: June 12 – June 16, 2023

Family will be notified of acceptance by: Friday, June 21, 2023

Estimated Installation Dates: Saturday, September 18 – Tuesday, October 17, 2023 (tentative)

Estimated Deinstall Dates: Monday, September 1 – Tuesday September 2, 2025

Exhibit: October 18 2023 – August 31, 2025

Opening Reception + Family Workshops (5 dates):

  • Opening Reception (TBD)
  • Fall/Winter 2023
  • Spring/Summer 2024
  • Fall 2024
  • Winter/Spring 2025
  • Summer 2025

Concept Development Phase

Final concept should support the following goals:

  • Promote creativity and imaginative play
  • Families learning together through participation
  • Interactive environment with multiple play zones for children to engage with
  • A designated reading area for regular programming
  • Provide a family-friendly experience for visitors of all ages and abilities
  • Make authentic connections to art
  • Be inclusive and support DEIA values

Required:

  • Materials, construction, and interactives must be durable and safe
  • Kids’ Corner must continue to serve as a hands-on environment used for story times and as a play/break space for museum visitors.
  • Meet accessible and developmental needs (e.g. How might infants interact with the space? How will children with developmental disabilities respond to the space?)

Post-installation requirements:

  • The resident family will be required to attend the Opening Reception and host a series of four family workshops throughout the exhibit period

Please submit all application questions or materials to FamilyRes@delart.org.