Call Description

2026 Call for Creatives – Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild (BPSW) invites artists of all disciplines to apply for a three-week September 2026 residency. Set within 40 acres of forested land in Lincoln, Montana, this program offers time, space, and community connection to create site-specific works inspired by the history, landscape, and culture of the Blackfoot Valley.

Our Mission is to provide an environment for the creation of significant artworks, both permanent and temporary, inspired by the environmental and industrial heritage of the Blackfoot Valley while fostering an awareness and appreciation of the arts through community participation and education. Link to our full mission statement here.

Residency Details
Residency is on site in Lincoln, Montana during the last three weeks of September 2026
Site visit: 3–4 days between April 1 and June 15th, 2026
Budget: Our total residency budget for 2026 is $50,000, which will be used to support one or more artists within this yearly allocation.

Expectations
Artists are expected to: create a site-specific artwork during the residency, participate in talks and educational activities, share their process with the community, and prioritize materials that are locally sourced or reflect Montana’s landscape. The Lincoln Community has historically made volunteers available to assist artists in residence.

Application Requirements
1. Resume or CV
2. Letter of Interest (approximately 500 words, less than 3,000 Characters) outlining:
(1) Your background, experience, connection, or desire for being part of the Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture in the Wild, 
(2) Your vision or approach for developing your plan for an installation in the space, and
(3) Your experience, plans, or approach to engaging the community in your project.
3. Proposed Budget (Template Provided). Download the Budget Template Here.
4. 5-15 images of relevant work
5. Website or social links
6. Name and contact information for two professional references

Selection Criteria:

Artistic Vision & Quality of Work – Clear, compelling ideas and a demonstrated track record of creative practice.

Connection to Place – Use of materials and approaches that reflect or respond to the Blackfoot Valley’s landscape, history, and culture (with an emphasis on Montana-sourced or locally inspired materials). See FAQs for more information.

Community Engagement – A commitment to interact with the Lincoln community through artist talks, open studios, and educational opportunities.

How to Apply:

The purpose of this application is to review qualifications and connect artists that align with the mission of Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture in the Wild. A detailed project proposal will be expected after the artist is selected and the Spring 2026 site visit is complete.

We look forward to learning about your ideas and how you will use this opportunity to create work that connects art, nature, and community. 

We recommend preparing and double-checking all required attachments before submitting your application to ensure your materials are complete.

Have These Ready Before You Apply

1. Budget template
2. 5-15 photos
3. Artist statement — max 3,000 characters (about 500 words), ready to copy and paste into the form.

Questions?

We’re a small nonprofit and will do our best to respond to inquiries as quickly as possible. Please check our website for updates. We’ll also be updating our Frequently Asked Questions section to help answer common questions. Questions will be responded to as we are able and can be sent to residency@sculptureinthewild.com

Application Requirements

Application Requirements:

1. Resume or CV
2. Letter of Interest (approximately 500 words, less than 3,000 Characters) outlining:

     - Your background, experience, connection, or desire for being part of the Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture in the Wild, 
     - Your vision or approach for developing your plan for an installation in the space, and
     - Your experience, plans, or approach to engaging the community in your project.

3. Proposed Budget. LINK TO BUDGET TEMPLATE
4. 5-15 images of relevant work
5. Website or social links
6. Name and contact information for two professional references

Eligibility Criteria

The Artist-in-Residence program is open to emerging and established artists working in a variety of disciplines, including sculpture, installation, environmental art, and other site-responsive practices. Applicants should demonstrate:

Artistic Excellence – A strong portfolio of completed work showing originality, craftsmanship, and creative vision.

Connection to Place – An interest in engaging with the Blackfoot Valley’s landscape, history, and materials, with preference for projects that incorporate Montana-sourced or locally inspired elements.

Community Engagement – A commitment to interact with the Lincoln community through talks, workshops, or other public programs.

Feasibility – A clear plan for completing the proposed project within the residency period, including realistic timelines, budgets, and material needs.

This program welcomes applications from artists of all backgrounds and identities, with no formal education requirement.