The SFW Resident Artist Program
Know before you apply
- Artists working with communities
- US-based career artists
- Artists able to live on-site six weeks
- No current degree candidates eligible
- No children, families or pets
- Workshops and artist talks required
The Kent Cultural Alliance (KCA) is excited to announce its Spring 2027 SFW Resident Artist Program session, inviting artists to apply for a six-week residency session in Chestertown, Maryland devoted to the theme of service. A total of three artists will be selected through an application review conducted by KCA staff, board members, artists, and community partners. Service, as the theme of KCA’s Spring 2027 session is intended to creatively serve the needs of our communities for which the artwork is made.
About the Residency
Launched in 2024, the SFW Resident Artist Program provides a live-in, work-in experience at the historic Mansfield/Eliasson House, now known as the Vincent & Leslie Prince Raimond Cultural Center.
The cornerstone of this residency is Community Engagement. Artists will work with local nonprofit organizations and businesses under a common theme assigned to each residency session. The theme determines the community partners for each session and sets the parameters for the work. Artists will work closely with local organizations, learning about their missions and challenges, and will create work that amplifies their stories to engage broader audiences. Each artist will also lead a workshop at one of the five county public schools and participate in artist talks and open studio events throughout the residency.
The Kent Cultural Alliance has served the people of Kent County, Maryland as the designated county arts council since 1975. KCA operates on funding from the State of Maryland, The SFW Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, The MidShore Community Foundation, The Hedgelawn Foundation, MidAtlantic Arts, Maryland Heritage Areas Authority and contributions from individuals near and far.
Residency Details
Duration: Each session is six weeks long, accommodating up to four artists per session.
(Note: This is an Artist Residency program; artists are expected to live on-site at the Raimond Center during the session.)Engagement: Artists will engage directly with the local community, creating projects that foster civic and social engagement.
Workshops: each artist will provide one or two workshops in partnership with a social service agency or school in Kent County.
Spring 2027: March 14 – April 24 on the theme of SERVICE in partnership with For All Seasons, Kent County Food Pantry, and Sumner Hall, Chestertown.