• In addition to making artwork, artists can choose to engage with museum visitors through workshops, demonstrations, and open exploration.
• We have an ongoing application with flexible periods ranging from 4 to 12 weeks to accommodate the unique needs of each artist. While applying, artists can choose the time period that works best for them.
• Candidates will be interviewed to assess their needs, potential timelines, and outcomes.
• We select a maximum of four artists to participate in the program within a full calendar year.

There are two work periods to choose from:

Period 1: September-December 2024

• Open Call Closes: May 31, 2024
• Artists will be interviewed in June 2024.
• Successful interviewees will receive their invitation to participate in the program in July 2024.
• The program runs from September-December. Artists’ participation can run from 4-12 weeks based on availability and project scope.
• During this time, artists will work in the museum to develop and create new works that will be exhibited throughout early February 2025.

Period 2: February-May

• Open Call Closes: September 1, 2024
• Artists will be interviewed between October and November 2024.
• Successful interviewees will receive their invitation to participate in the program in December 2024.
• The program runs from February-May 2025. Artists’ participation can run from 4-12 weeks based on availability and project scope.
• During this time, artists will work in the museum to develop and create new works that will be exhibited throughout early July 2025.

• $5,000 honorarium
• Up to $3,000 materials budget provided (all purchases are made and approved by KID Museum)
• Shared workspace in a shared shop
• Access to fabrication facilities under an agreement, and many tools including Hand drill, Tablesaw, Drill press, Miter saw, Band saw, Planer, Belt Sander, Laser Cutter, Tracksaw, Bench grinder, Welder, 3D Printer, Jig saw, Circular saw, Palm routers, Orbital sanders, Angle grinders.
  • NOTE: Artists should possess prior experience with some of the equipment, and KID Museum will offer mandatory shop orientation and tool training.

• We support artists, designers, doers, crafters, makers, and creatives across
  various disciplines and media, including painting, sculpture, fiber arts, digital
  media, woodwork, printmaking, electronics, mixed media, and more. Constraints may apply to artwork that includes sound, culinary art, ceramics, or any other media that is loud, delicate, or fragile.
• The program aims to support emerging local artists in their development, as well as offer opportunities for more established makers to engage with family
  audiences.
• Creatives with experience or interest in creating interactive, immersive, sculptural projects with kids and youth are encouraged to apply.
• Artists from local and regional locations are eligible to apply.
• We strive for different representations of voices, life experiences, views,
  backgrounds, interests, and mediums, prioritizing artists from historically
  marginalized groups, including Black, Indigenous, Latino, People of Color, female and non-binary, and LGBTQI+ communities.
• Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Artists are expected to be near Bethesda, Maryland, with accessible transportation to the museum for the duration of the program.

• Artists are required to comply with all policies outlined in a formal agreement provided by KID Museum; both parties are required to sign this agreement as a prerequisite for program participation.
• At the start of the program, artists will participate in up to two orientation days at KID Museum, providing an opportunity to meet the staff and familiarize themselves with the space, facilities, programs, and visitors.
• Artists will spend time on the museum floor during Open Explore (Sundays) and other programs (during the week). This is crucial to understanding how our visitors use and experience the museum, which will inform the artwork design choices.
• Prototype and progress in their concept design based on audience/staff interaction, feedback, and timing.
• Be communicative throughout the whole program period with the program manager and other KID Museum staff. It’s better to overshare than not to communicate at all!
• Participate in an evaluation survey and exit interview to evaluate the program.
• Remain available and accessible (either in-person or remotely) for troubleshooting and repairs (if needed) during exhibition time.