Applications are now open for Southwestern Oregon Community College’s (SWOCC) Guest Artist in Residence Program for the 2026–2027 academic year. The program is designed to connect professional artists with local students and community members through hands-on teaching, public workshops, and community engagement.
The nine-month residency takes place at Southwestern’s Coos Campus and the Coos Art Museum in Coos Bay, Oregon. It provides artists with time, space, and support to develop their work while helping expand access to the arts throughout the South Coast. Artists are encouraged to apply or share this opportunity with others in their networks.
Residency Benefits
- $1,600 monthly stipend – Intended to cover materials, travel, shipping, and living expenses for the duration of the residency
- Studio space on Southwestern’s Coos Campus and at the Coos Art Museum
- On-campus housing and a 10-meal-per-week dining plan
- A solo exhibition at Southwestern’s Eden Gallery
The selected artist will teach two or more classes or workshops per term for Southwestern students, in addition to developing and teaching at least one workshop per term for the Coos Art Museum Studio. They will collaborate with students, faculty, and local partners to make the arts more inclusive and accessible.
“The Guest Artist in Residence program creates an avenue for artists to focus on their work while engaging directly with students and the community,” said Ali Mageehon, Vice President of Instruction and Student Services. “The program’s first year was a huge success with full workshops and positive feedback from both students and community members who took part in the classes.”
Eligibility & How to Apply
Applications are open to artists working in painting (any medium), photography, mixed media, installation art, or bronze casting:
- Applicants should have a developed artistic practice, teaching experience with undergraduate students, and the technical skills to work independently in a studio environment.
- Ideal for emerging or mid-career artists looking to balance studio work with teaching and community collaboration.
- Artists from both the U.S. and abroad are welcome to apply. International artists must independently secure legal residency status.
Applications are submitted through the CaFÉ (Call for Entry) platform.
Apply to SWOCC Guest Artist in Residence Program(Artists will need to create or log in to a CaFÉ account to submit an application.)
IMPORTANT DATES
- Deadline to apply: May 1, 2026
- Zoom Interviews: Week of May 11, 2026
- Residency period: September 2026 – June 2027 (9 months)
If this sounds like a great fit for you — or if you know an artist whose work would thrive in this setting — we encourage you to apply or share this opportunity with someone who could bring their talent and perspective to the South Coast.
