Caldera Artists in Residence 2026

Caldera’s mission is to inspire and support youth from historically underserved urban and rural communities by awakening the potential of their creative voice. The residency program supports the mission by showcasing diverse adult learners with a regular creative practice and sometimes connects artist residents with Caldera youth for direct instruction. Through the residency program, Caldera supports artists, creatives, and cultural workers to build skills, relationships, and projects that inspire growth, combat oppression, and activate change. Residents draw inspiration from the residency community and the natural world surrounding Caldera in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.

Residencies are open to US-based creatives and cultural workers in any discipline. Artists at any stage of their careers, who are not current students, are eligible to apply. Residencies are also available for parent artists who would like to bring their children.

Residents will receive private lodging, studio, and an artist stipend. Please note: transportation to and from the residency site is not provided by Caldera. Stipend amounts vary based on funding available in a given year, but on average will range from $700 -$1200. Collaborative groups typically split the stipend. Artists must have US work authorization in order to receive the stipend.

Requirements

AIR PRIORITIES - PLEASE READ THOROUGHLY BEFORE APPLYING

Caldera has identified the following as priorities for the AiR Program, and selection is made with these in mind:

• Artists and cultural workers who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color). Caldera’s benchmark for 2026 is for BIPOC artists to make up 90% of our residents.
• Female identifying, and LGBTQIA+ artists.
• Artists and cultural workers advancing cultural and social change through their work.
• Artists who have experience working with and teaching racially/ethnically diverse groups of young people. Teaching artist applicants are invited to propose workshops, skill-share sessions, and or other public engagements during their residency.
• Parents, particularly parents of color are invited to apply (see details below).