Call Description

Dairy Arts Center Workshop Open Call 2026–2027

The Dairy Arts Center invites proposals for community-based workshops, talks, and interactive programs to take place during the 2026–2027 season.

This open call is designed to bring artists, educators, performers, and creative facilitators into the Dairy’s galleries to lead engaging public programs that activate exhibitions and connect audiences with contemporary art in meaningful ways.

Selected facilitators will collaborate with the Dairy’s Visual Arts Curator to develop programming that complements exhibitions and expands how visitors experience art through conversation, participation, and creative exploration.

Applications Open: March 3, 2026
Application Deadline: June 6, 2026

About the Workshops

The Dairy Arts Center is seeking interactive, community-focused programs that can take place within the gallery environment and engage groups of approximately 40 participants.

Workshops may include:

• Creative workshops or guided activities
• Artist talks or demonstrations
• Interactive performances or participatory experiences
• Community conversations or storytelling events
• Educational sessions exploring artistic processes, themes, or cultural perspectives

Programs may be standalone events or short series, and some proposals may be developed in connection with specific exhibitions in collaboration with the Visual Arts Curator.

Workshop Environment

Workshops will take place inside the Dairy Arts Center galleries, in proximity to artwork currently on view. Because of this, proposed activities should be safe for gallery environments and should not include materials or processes that could damage artworks.

Please note:

• Workshops should not involve paint, ink, or messy materials
• Activities should be low-impact and gallery-safe
• Programs should be designed for approximately 40 participants
• Facilitators should be comfortable leading interactive, audience-centered experiences within a museum-style environment.

Support Provided

Selected workshop facilitators will receive:

• Paid honorarium
• Production and logistical support
• Dairy Arts Center staff assistance
• Use of the Dairy’s gallery spaces
• Promotion through the Dairy’s marketing channels

Facilitators will work with the Visual Arts Curator to finalize program details and scheduling.

Application Requirements

All applications must be made through the CaFE platform.

Applications should include:

• A description of the proposed workshop or program with intended audience and participant experience
• Format (workshop, talk, performance, series, etc.)
• Estimated duration
• Brief bio of facilitator(s)
• Work Samples: Submit at least 2 and up to 10 work samples (any media accepted, including a combination of video, audio, and images).

Eligibility Criteria

We welcome proposals from:

• Artists
• Educators
• Cultural workers
• Performers
• Writers and scholars
• Community organizers
• Creative facilitators working across disciplines

Applicants do not need to be based in Boulder, but must be based in CO and must be able to cover their own transport to and from the Venue.

 Applicants must be 18+. 

Programs may be designed for:

• Adults
• All-ages audiences
• Intergenerational participation