artist-in-residence program

Since its inception in 1974, the Exploratorium’s Artist-in-Residence Program (AIR) has grown to include hundreds of artists and performers. The museum works with individuals and artist groups who are drawn to collaboration, interested in interdisciplinary dialogue, and open to developing new working methods. Projects have taken countless forms, such as multimedia performances, theatrical productions, animated filmmaking, immersive installations, walking tours, and online projects. The program allows artists to embed within the unique culture of the institution, affords access to a dynamic and distinct staff, and provides opportunities for cross-pollination with a diverse public. While the museum allows room for variance, residencies typically unfold over two years and include both an exploratory and project-development phase.

The AIR program is an opportunity for artists to begin their residency with a sense of curiosity and experimentation rather than a fully formed idea and to work in a co-creative manner with the Exploratorium. Applicants to the program should be inherently curious and deeply invested in inquiry as a part of their practice. Exploratorium AIRs receive a $15,000 annual stipend, support for travel, project management and financial support for residency projects, and access to Exploratorium facilities and staff expertise.

Timeline:

September 2025–September 2026 • Residency Year 1

September 2026–September 2027 • Residency Year 2

Summary of Expectations

• The Exploratorium AIR Program is conceived as a two-year program with distinct time for onboarding and getting to know the organization, idea incubation, prototyping and experimentation, idea refinement, and if appropriate, project production. Exploratorium AIRs are expected to spend sufficient time at the Exploratorium or engaged in Exploratorium activities to complete residency phases.
• Applicants should be ready and able to commit to the time necessary to be an AIR.
• AIRs should have an interest in presenting their work to Exploratorium staff members and visitors through talks and public programs.
• An interest in working in the Exploratorium’s unique environment and excited about engaging with our audiences and our community.