Emerging Artist Fellowship

2026 Midcareer & Emerging Artist Fellowships Application

Founded in 1996, Franconia Sculpture Park is the Midwest’s pre‑eminent, artist-centered sculpture park. Franconia’s mission is to foster an inclusive community to create and contemplate contemporary art inspired by nature and our ever‑evolving world. Located in the scenic St. Croix River Valley of Minnesota, Franconia operates a 50‑acre outdoor museum, an active artist residency program, and more than 60 public programs each year.

The park is open daily, welcoming over 180,000 visitors each year. We cultivate critical dialogue between artists and audiences; support artists through producing and presenting new, experimental work; and educate artists and audiences of tomorrow. We create programming that is responsive to the wants and needs of artists and our rural community.

ALL sculptures created through this program are supposed to last at least 2 years outside, on‑site, exposed to harsh Minnesota seasons and thousands of visitors. The artwork remains property of the artist and after two years may continue on exhibition, be sold, or deinstalled in coordination with Franconia.

Each year, the park's curatorial theme draws attention to contemporary forces. In the Freedom and Revolution announcement marking the country’s semi quincentennial, Executive Director and Army Veteran Alex Legeros said, “Being creative means being free. Artists have long been the ones who get us to see the world differently, and at Franconia we have over 100 examples of what happens when an artist is given the freedom to pursue their dreams.

When I think of the logic behind what Franconia does, it’s this: we invite artists to catch your eye, make connections, and you leave seeing your world—your home, your choices, your future—differently. It’s a revolution, and it’s very cool.”

Combined giving from donors, foundations, and government agencies will allow for more support for resident artists than ever before. What a way to celebrate Franconia’s 30th birthday this year!

“Over the last 30 years, the world has needed Franconia Sculpture Park to be an example of freedom and revolution—a refuge for big, bold ideas. What has long fueled our commitment to contemporary artists is also what makes Franconia a joyous and empowering place.” Thanks to this shared belief in the power of what’s happening right here, right now, “We’ll use the year of art, connection, and community to think about what these words mean.”

• Access to Franconia’s Work Pad: tool sheds, welders, large gantries, outdoor workspace. Residents have access to a bobcat/skidsteer and 16’ crane truck, in addition to Franconia’s used pickup and large forklift.
• NEW! Each artist-in-residence will be provided a $1000 materials stipend in addition to the increased Fellowship awards.
• Free accommodation in Franconia’s Artist Residence: private bedroom, two kitchen areas, office, shared bathrooms & laundry, great wifi.
• Support from Franconia’s Site Council during fabrication and installation, which this year includes Teaching Artist-in-Residence partnering organization Chicago Avenue Fire Arts Center.
• Inclusion in the 2026 Art & Artists Symposium on September 26, as well as the International Sculpture Center Conference event at Franconia on Saturday, October 24.
• Features in print and online media, such as Franconia’s website and annual report, as well as enduring recognition during the lifespan of the sculpture.
• Respect. Led by and supported by artists, Franconia strives to set a high level of discourse that amplifies the lifelong impact for artists and art‑lovers.

Franconia’s Open Call is based in our community and mission. Franconia’s Artistic Council makes final applicant selections. This body’s members come from Franconia’s annual Artist in Leadership cohort, as well as an equal number of members of its Board of Directors, and is facilitated by the Executive Director. Franconia’s Site Council will also review and provide feedback on proposals as they relate to Franconia’s capacities: equipment, construction, environment, and…