SURF Artist in Residence Program

An artist residency at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in Lead, South Dakota, supporting work inspired by its underground laboratory, history, and scientific experiments. Artists in all media are encouraged to apply, including visual artists, filmmakers, writers, and musicians. The program includes a four-week summer on-site visit and a one-week fall installation and guest-lecture visit, a $5,000 stipend, transportation, housing, per diem, studio access, and facility tours. Artists may apply for up to $5,000 in additional artwork-creation funds.

Work inspired by SURF, its underground laboratory, history, and experiments in physics, biology, geology, and engineering; interdisciplinary connections between art and science.

Applicants should have a strong professional record, including major regional, national, or international exhibitions or similarly documented experience. Artists in all media are encouraged to apply. Submit a letter of intent and statement explaining interest in the residency and ways the artist will contribute to SURF; a short CV/resume (2–5 page maximum); 15–20 examples of artwork completed in the last five years, with an image list or another way to identify the work; an anticipated materials budget, if already known beyond the $5,000 artist stipend; and names and contact information for three professional references. The residency requires a four-week summer on-site visit and a one-week fall art-installation/guest-lecture visit. Visit dates are coordinated with SURF and the artist's schedule; available summer dates are May 22–July 31, and the fall visit is scheduled for October. Artists must be comfortable in dark underground spaces, able to walk at least a mile at a time on uneven surfaces, and prepared for a dark elevator ride, wet conditions, and slippery surfaces. Safety training, compliance with safety protocols, appropriate loaned personal protective equipment, and accompaniment by a designated guide at all times at SURF are required. A timeline and expectations will be agreed upon before the residency, and the artist and SURF will sign an MOU. The $5,000 stipend is paid in two installments; artists may apply for up to $5,000 in additional artwork-creation funds. In the fall, the artist must install an exhibition, give up to two lectures based on the proposal, and provide promotional or outreach events within the local community, coordinated with SURF. Each artist must donate at least one artwork to SURF's permanent collection, selected by a SURF representative. The artist is responsible for installation and de-installation in coordination with SURF and the exhibition space. SURF covers return shipping up to $7,000. Transportation by airfare, rental car, or mileage, housing, and per diem are provided for both visits. No application, participation, or additional fees are stated.