surf artist in residence program

The SURF AiR program invites artists to create work inspired by the Sanford Underground Research Facility. 

The SURF AiR program provides opportunities for artists to create work inspired by the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), which is set in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. SURF’s unique location and history make it an ideal place for creative work. At 4,850 feet deep, SURF is the deepest underground laboratory in the United States and is located in the former Homestake Gold Mine. The facility houses experiments in physics, biology, geology, and engineering. The SURF AiR program leverages the unique characteristics of SURF and the science experiments it hosts to create awareness and encourage interdisciplinary work. This residency is modeled after various programs offered by government, science and industry including the National Park Service, CERN, and Fermilab.

The SURF AiR includes a four-week on-site visit in the summer and a one-week art installation/guest lecture visit in the fall. Timeframes for the visits will be determined by each artist’s schedule in coordination with SURF (please note, available dates for the summer visit are between May 22-July 31 and the fall installation/guest lecture visit is scheduled for October).

Working underground requires the artist to be comfortable in dark spaces and follow all safety protocols. The artist must also be able to walk on uneven surfaces for at least a mile at a time. Travel underground entails taking an elevator ride in the dark as well as negotiating wet conditions and slippery surfaces. A guide is required and will accompany the artist at all times while at SURF.

A timeline and expectations will be agreed upon before the residency begins. An MOU will be drafted and signed by the artist and SURF.