The College of Biological Sciences, through Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve and the CBS Conservatory & Botanical Collection, is partnering with The Bakken Museum to create the “Lifeforms” artist in residence (AiR) program. This program is a jury-selected award providing the selected artist with the opportunity to interact with scientists to develop art connected to current research and then to display their work at The Bakken Museum’s great hall. A small stipend is offered to offset materials and transportation costs. This is a unique opportunity for an artist to explore the deep connections to biology and create genuine and meaningful synergy between art and science.
We are looking for an Artist in Residence who will demonstrate their creative ideas and commitment to exploring the intersection of art and science. We seek those who are passionate about the broad topics we study (plants, ecosystems, biodiversity, climate change, etc), who are committed to engaging directly with scientists, who have ideas that take advantage of something unique about our sites, and who have a deliverable will fit into the exhibit space. For this first year of the partnership, we are seeking artists whose work can be hung on walls for the six-month exhibition, rather than performers or those who need substantial 3-dimensional display space. The artist will need to work with The Bakken to design the display for both the opening and the duration of the showing. This program has a relatively short timeline (February or March start; early November installation), and the artist will need to work within those constraints to deliver their final piece(s) on time. Solo artists are encouraged to apply, but pairs or collectives are also welcome provided they are willing to work collaboratively on a program and share the honorarium.
Applications for our 2026 residency are open now through January 23rd, 2026! Please fill out this application form and submit the requested proposal and portfolio pieces. If you have technical issues, please contact Caitlin Potter (caitlin@umn.edu).
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