A place-based program for early career artists where art and the artistic process instigates positive change, addresses or creates an opportunity to move the community forward or is otherwise be central to problem-solving. Supported by the Jerome Foundation, the Lanesboro Early Career Artist Residency program is an opportunity for early career artists from Minnesota and the five boroughs of New York City to explore ways in which their work can be applied to the community and how Lanesboro’s rural community can inform their work.

This place-based and community-engaged residency program was designed to align with and amplify Lanesboro Arts’ vision for communities–especially rural communities–to embrace artists as economic drivers, culture bearers, community builders, and problem solvers. Lanesboro Arts is especially seeking residency projects where community engagement is integral to the art making or projects where public interaction with the work is at the core of an artist’s practice.

Before submitting an application, please take moment to review our program guidelines and eligibility criteria.

The Round One application deadline for the 2025 Lanesboro Early Career Artist Residency Program was Friday, May 31, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. CST. The application opened on April 18th, 2024.

New in 2024, Lanesboro Arts is implementing a two-round application process for the Early Career Artist Residency Program, in response to feedback from artists. The two-step application process is meant to alleviate some of the time-consuming nature of applications.

Round One of the application process asks for basic information about the artist, their demographics, and a bit about the proposed project. Round One applications were due May 31, 2024 at 11:59 pm.

Applications were then reviewed by Lanesboro Arts staff for alignment and best fit with program mission and goals. Following review, applicants were notified of their application status on June 11th. A smaller pool of selected applicants were then be invited to apply for Round Two, which includes more detail about the artist and their proposed community project. Round Two applications are due August 2nd, 2024 at 11:59 pm and are reviewed by a diverse jury of artists from around the state of Minnesota. (You can preview Round Two application questions here; but note: you cannot apply for Round Two unless your Round One application is accepted.)