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Release Date: July 19,2024

Akron Soul Train Artist Residency Application Opens August 1

Calling All Regional Artists: Apply to Akron Soul Train’s Artist Residency!

July 18, 2024, Akron, Ohio — Get ready to ignite your creativity with Akron Soul Train (AST)! We are thrilled to invite regional artists from all walks of artistic life—whether you're into visual, performing, written arts, cross-genre, or experimental—to apply for our transformative artist residency program.

Picture this: a one-month residency where you’ll receive a $1000 stipend, resources, and dedicated time to create and showcase a brand-new body of artwork. Imagine the thrill of having your work recognized in the community and press, all while engaging with Akron's vibrant art scene and meeting incredible new people, artists, and key stakeholders.

But that's not all! As part of your residency, you’ll be challenged to create something fresh and original for display, performance, or publication. You'll also get to lead a community program with the support of our experienced staff, take over AST’s social media for a day, and seize press and outreach opportunities as they arise.

Who can apply? Creatives aged 18 and over who are regional or within driving distance to Akron, and able to travel for their project presentation. 

Our selection criteria are focused on your artistic excellence, innovation, professionalism, and potential for growth. The AST Residency Committee, a diverse panel of 8 distinguished members, will select 12-15 exceptional artists for the program. Meet our esteemed committee members:

  • Arnold Tunstall, Director of Galleries at The University of Akron and AST board member
  • Jill Bacon Madden, Owner of Jilly’s Music Room and AST board member
  • Stephen Tomasko, Photographer and AST Alumnus
  • Courtney Cable, Creative Director, Curated Storefront
  • Francisca B. Ugalde, Curator, Institute for Human Science and Culture, and Instructor, Museums and Archives Certificate Program

And our 2024 guest jurors:

  • Sylvia Sykes, Writer and Visual Artist, AST Alumna
  • Grace Carter, Writer and Associate Director of Community Impact, ArtsNow
  • William Eugene Blake, Director of Programming, Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to advance your artistic career and make a mark in the Akron art community. For more information and to apply, visit https://www.akronsoultrain.org/apply-for-residency.

Let’s make some magic together!

For all other questions about the residency and application, visit our website at www.akronsoultrain.org or contact Pita Brooks, Executive Director at pita@akronsoultrain.org.