Smack Mellon Artist Studio Program 2027-2028

Smack Mellon's eleven-month Artist Studio Program offers six NYC-based early-career artists free private studios, access to shared production facilities, and a stipend dependent on funding. The program runs September 8, 2027–August 8, 2028 in Dumbo, Brooklyn. Studios are 250–300 square feet and accessible 24/7; living space is not provided. Eligible disciplines include painting, film/video/media, photography, sculpture, and all visual arts.

Applicants should be emerging or early-career artists within the first 2 to 10 years of their public careers. Artists with solo exhibitions at widely recognized galleries or institutions, consistent production opportunities, awards and press, and/or 10 or more years of consistent public experience are not considered emerging. Age is not a determining factor, but applicants must be at least 18. Applicants must be legal NYC residents and have filed taxes in NYC for at least one year before the application deadline; they must reside in NYC during the application process and throughout the residency. Finalists invited for interviews must provide a tax return as proof of residency. US citizenship or legal Permanent Resident status is required at the time of application. Applicants may not be enrolled in any degree program, must demonstrate need for a studio, and may not simultaneously be resident artists in another studio program. Accepted artists must actively use their studios at least 50 hours per month or lose the studio. No living space is provided. Studios are on the lower level, not all have windows, and artists cannot choose their studio. Because basement studios may flood, artists are strongly advised to keep valuables off the floor; artists who work on the floor should consider whether the studios meet their needs. The stipend depends on funding. Apply through Submittable by December 1, 2026 after reviewing eligibility and application guidelines. Selection is based on work quality and potential to make the most of the program; notifications are sent in May 2027. Do not call or email for selection results.