Deadline: January 15, 2026
The Folger Institute Artistic Research Fellowships 2026–2027 are now open for applications! These prestigious fellowships are designed to support artists whose creative work benefits from primary research into the early modern world (c. 1400–1800) and its cultural legacies.
Hosted by the Folger Institute, this program is part of a long-standing commitment to promoting interdisciplinary inquiry across art, literature, history, and performance. The fellowships provide both onsite and virtual research opportunities for artists working in diverse disciplines.
About the Folger Institute Artistic Research Fellowships 2026–2027
The Folger Institute Artistic Research Fellowships 2026–2027 invite applications from artists who wish to engage directly with the Folger Shakespeare Library’s vast collections. This includes manuscripts, rare books, visual materials, and digital resources that relate to the early modern period.
Fellows may use this opportunity to develop new creative works, explore historical influences, or deepen the research foundation of their ongoing artistic practices.
The fellowship encourages a broad range of creative interpretations — from visual art, performance, and music to writing, film, and interdisciplinary projects — that draw meaningful connections between the past and the present.
Fellowship Details
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by January 15, 2026 (11:59 pm ET).
Fellowship Period
Fellowships may take place at any time between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2027.
Duration
Applicants may propose a research residency of 1, 2, or 3 months.
Research can be conducted onsite at the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C., virtually, or as a hybrid of both formats.
Stipend
- $5,000 per month for onsite research
- $4,000 per month for virtual research
This financial support helps artists dedicate focused time to explore, experiment, and create using the Folger’s extraordinary resources.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to artists from all disciplines whose work would benefit from primary research connected to the early modern world.
- No formal academic degree is required.
- Applicants should demonstrate relevant training, experience, or prior creative engagement in their CV.
- Both U.S.-based and international applicants are welcome to apply.
- For international fellows, J-1 visa sponsorship may be available where required.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Successful fellows will gain:
- Access to Folger’s world-class collections of rare books, manuscripts, and images.
- Guidance from Folger librarians and curators, available both onsite and virtually.
- Opportunities to engage with a vibrant community of scholars, artists, and cultural practitioners.
- Support for developing creative works rooted in research and historical exploration.
This unique fellowship bridges the gap between academic research and artistic innovation, fostering projects that reinterpret the early modern era through a contemporary lens.
Application Components
Applicants are expected to submit the following materials:
- 250-word abstract summarizing the proposed project.
- 1,500-word project description outlining the project’s scope, relevance, originality, and feasibility.
- Two-page CV highlighting artistic and/or research experience.
- One-page list of Folger materials, collections, or digital resources intended for consultation.
- One letter of recommendation.
- Optional supporting portfolio or examples of past work relevant to the proposed project.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly articulate how your creative work benefits from direct engagement with Folger’s collections or research themes.
- Explain how your artistic vision connects with historical materials from the early modern period.
- Provide a realistic plan for how you will use your time, whether onsite, virtual, or hybrid.
- Include goals for project outcomes — such as exhibitions, performances, publications, or multimedia works.
- Demonstrate originality and how your research will contribute to the broader cultural conversation.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their application materials early and ensure all documents are complete before submission.
Learn More
For detailed information about the program structure, selection process, and application portal:
🔗 Read more about the Folger Institute Artistic Research Fellowships 2026–2027
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
