A Black Artist’s Residency Applications Open

Applications are now open for A Black Artist’s Residency, a holistic, transformative program designed to empower and launch Black creatives through hands-on development, mentorship, apprenticeship, financial support, education, and long-term project development.

Selected artists will begin with a fully funded, one-week residency on Mackinac Island in August 2027, including a paid stipend. The residency will offer time for creative exploration, rest, community building, and inspiration drawn from the Black and Indigenous histories of Mackinac Island.

Following the residency, artists will participate in a 12-month fellowship where they will develop and execute a self-directed final project. Projects may take the form of an original community program, a cohesive collection of artwork, or an immersive installation, with work demonstrated at A Black Artist’s Conference in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in 2028/2029.

Eligible applicants include:

Artists working in performance, visual arts, interdisciplinary arts, or creative writing
Individual artists
Creative business representatives
Nonprofit representatives interested in developing their own BAP program
Priority will be given to historically obstructed creators and applicants who demonstrate a deep understanding of the program’s core values and the Black Diasporic art tradition. All creators who resonate with the program’s vision are encouraged to apply.

📅 Application Deadline: March 31, 2027
📍 Residency: Mackinac Island, Michigan | August 2027
📍 Final Project: Kalamazoo, Michigan | 2028/2029

A Black Artist’s Path is committed to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and equitable environment. The program is fiscally sponsored by the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo.

Learn more and apply through A Black Artist’s Path.