Application Process

Artist-in-Residence ProgramProviding emerging and mid-career artists with dedicated studio space, professional exposure, and community engagement opportunities. We are currently accepting applications for our 2027 residency periods. To apply , please fill out the form below. Apply Now About the Program Riverviews Artspace invites applications for our next Artist-in-Residence (A.I.R.), an opportunity designed to support artists in advancing their creative and professional practice within a collaborative community setting. Our Artist-in-Residence Program, sponsored by Bank of the James, offers free workspace for six months within a shared artist studio at Riverviews Artspace. The program is designed to be flexible and tailored to the individual artist, giving residents the space, resources, and freedom to explore their practice on their own terms. Please note: This is a workspace residency only and does not include housing or monetary compensation. Elgible applicants for Riverviews Artspace’s Artist-in-Residence Program are:Emerging or mid-career artists seeking to grow their creative and professional practiceComfortable working in a shared studio environmentOpen to collaboration and public engagementExperienced or interested in artwork installation and curationAble to maintain a consistent presence for six months in Lynchburg, Virginia (housing is not included) We support our Artist-in-Residence by providing:Free workspace within a shared artist studio at Riverviews Artspace in downtown Lynchburg, VA6-month residency term (January-June or July-December each calendar year)Access to the Riverviews creative community, staff, and professional networkMonthly public engagement through First Fridays, open studios, and other eventsIndividualized professional development support, including mentorship, portfolio feedback, and opportunities to build exhibition or teaching experienceFinal exhibition or public presentation of work created during the residency period In exchange for studio space and professional support, the Artist-in-Residence will:Maintain regular studio hours, including participation in First Fridays and other open studio eventsProvide curatorial and installation assistance for all exhibitions during the residency termEngage with visitors, staff, volunteers, and artists to foster a vibrant creative environment Present at least one public artist talk, workshop, or presentation before the residency period concludes Application ProcessHow to ApplySubmit all application materials using the form on our website by the next deadline: November 1, 2026.Applications must be received by May 1 for July-December residencies and November 1 for January-June residencies. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.Evaluation CriteriaArtistic quality, originality, and clarity of visionCommitment to professional and creative growthWillingness to engage with the community and assist in gallery operationsCompatibility with the shared studio environment and Riverviews’ missionTimelineMay 1, 2026: Applications due (July-December residency period)June 15, 2026: Artist-in-Residence selection announcedJuly 1, 2026: Residency period beginsNovember 1, 2026: Applications due (January-June residency period)December 15, 2026: Artist-in-Residence selection announcedJanuary 1, 2027: Residency period beginsQuestions? Contact us at: [email protected] Artspace is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and community engagement through the arts.The Artist in Residence Program is proudly sponsored by Bank of the James. "It’s a program where they can get not just involved with their art, but with businesses and with community members… It really helps to develop the artists. And, quite frankly, it's great for Lynchburg.” —Jimmy DavisBank of the James, title sponsor "Through the space I met art lovers, artists, and art supporters. It allowed me to focus on making art and prepare for my shows without having to worry about making sales to cover the cost of my studio.” —Alpha Massaquoi Jr.2025-26 Artist-in-Residence "Now with this residency, I'm able to challenge myself as an artist in ways I only dreamed of before. I'm able to work on multiple pieces at once and take on the biggest works I've ever attempted." —Matthew Sir Robertson2024-25 Artist-in-Residence “The AIR Program at Riverviews Artspace has been instrumental in enhancing my creative journey, allowing me to explore new mediums and techniques while engaging with the broader art community. Riverviews feels like home—it’s a space where I can fully express myself, connect with other artists, and truly grow as a creator.” —Larry Taylor Jr.2024-25 Artist-in-Residence