VisArts is calling for applications for the 2024 Art and Social Justice Fellowship, focusing on critical issues of our time.
Overview
The urgent need for creative solutions in the face of social, racial, economic, and environmental injustices prompts this call for the 2024 Art and Social Justice Fellowship. We invite visual activists engaged in research, curation, or visual activism that centers on these issues to join us.
Questions to Ponder
- How can artists and curators contribute to addressing systemic inequities?
- What role can creativity play in a sustainable, anti-racist future?
- How can we collaborate to effect meaningful change?
Fellowship Benefits
The year-long fellowship offers the opportunity to explore the transformative power of art and dialogue. Fellows will receive:
- A private studio with amenities and a $6,000 stipend.
- The chance to exhibit their work in the Common Ground Gallery.
- Engagement with the community, including workshops and public programming.
- Support for writing and research.
- Access to resources for in-person and online experiences.
Please note that housing is not provided as part of the fellowship.
Fellowship Responsibilities
Fellows are expected to:
- Utilize the studio at VisArts for a minimum of 8 hours per week.
- Participate in the VisArts Studio Artist Program.
- Engage with the public during events.
- Attend artist talks and gallery openings.
- Organize a public discussion, workshop, or other agreed-upon event.
- Present an exhibition or gallery activation.
Studio Terms
Applicants must be visual activists, curators, artists, or collaborative teams over the age of 18. While all media are welcome, the use of hazardous materials requiring specific ventilation is not supported.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- A 300-word statement of motivation, ideas, and radical imagination.
- A 300-word description of their commitment to art and social justice.
- Information about equity and justice training.
- A PDF of creative activist/curatorial projects.
- Two URL links featuring their work.
- Social media handles.
- Contact information for two references.
- A 100-word bio.
Encouraging Diversity
We strongly encourage Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to apply, as the fellowship aims to initiate community outreach within Rockville.
About Rockville
Rockville is a progressive city in the D.C. metropolitan area, known for its diversity, history, and environmental sustainability. It offers easy access to public transit, excellent schools, and numerous cultural resources.
About VisArts
VisArts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to transforming individuals and communities through the visual arts. Since 1987, VisArts has been a hub for artistic exploration, offering various programs and events that celebrate the visual arts as essential to a connected community.
For more information and to apply, visit VisArts Center.

