Art Critic Fellowship 2027 — AICA-USA

Organisation: AICA-USA (International Association of Art Critics, United States Section)
Location: United States / Puerto Rico (Hybrid)
Funding: $750 fellowship stipend plus $250 publication fee
Duration: 10 January – 4 April 2027
Application deadline: 22 November 2026

About the Fellowship

AICA-USA invites applications for its 2027 Art Critic Fellowship, supporting emerging writers through mentorship, professional development workshops and publication opportunities.

Launched in 2025, the programme reflects AICA-USA’s commitment to supporting critical writing within a vibrant arts ecosystem. It encourages an expansive understanding of art, including performance, dance, video art and transmedia practices.

From January to April 2027, fellows will participate in workshops and lectures led by experienced editors and writers, while working individually with an assigned mentor to develop a piece of art criticism for publication on the AICA-USA website.

Programme Structure

Fellows will participate in a pitching workshop, lectures, peer discussions and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Each participant is required to meet with their mentor at least four times and attend the programme’s workshops and lectures.

The fellowship offers an opportunity to develop critical writing skills, explore contemporary approaches to arts publishing and engage with established voices in art criticism.

The programme follows a hybrid format, with lectures streamed online and opportunities for in-person mentoring where geographically possible.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be aged 24 or older and reside in the United States or Puerto Rico.
• Be available to attend all programme dates.
• Be legally eligible to complete and submit a W-9 form.

Graduate and postgraduate students are welcome to apply. Applicants with interests in visual arts, writing, criticism, art history and contemporary visual culture are particularly encouraged, although these interests are not mandatory.

AICA-USA particularly welcomes applications from individuals with non-traditional backgrounds.

Funding and Support

Participation is free. Selected fellows receive a $750 stipend to help offset potential lost wages during the programme, alongside a $250 publication fee upon publication of their work.

The fellowship provides individual mentorship, professional development and an opportunity to publish original art criticism.

Image: Courtesy of AICA-USA.