About

Each year, we select artists-in-residence, and 2026 was our first year through an open call. Aided by a jury of experts who make nominations and alumni artists, Dark Lab welcomes practitionerswho work unconventionally and who will participate in our Third Saturdays: a monthly forum of artistic experimentation through activations, open studios, and performance.

All residents who complete the program join our ever-growing alumni network of collaborators who continue to teach, partner, and lead public programming at Dark Lab.

FAQs

How many residents are accepted per cohort?

We aim to host 5 artists per year.

How long are your residencies?

One year of engagement with a two week focused period in the house.

Do you accept collectives?

Yes, we do. However, resources (including, but not limited to, the financial honorarium, studio, and studio visits) would be shared. To apply as a collective or collaborative duo, etc, please submit one application from one person that notes it's a group.

Can I apply if I am not based in New York City?

Yes, the program accepts applications from artists working locally, nationally, or internationally. Please note, however, that Dark Lab cannot provide assistance with housing, travel expenses, or visas. We do not sponsor international visa applications.

How big are your studios?

They vary slightly, but are roughly 20 x 11 feet.

What resources do you offer?

We offer free studio space, with a table, chair, free ferry pass for Governors Island; studio visits with curators, gallerists, critics, and artists; and free access to public programs on the island, discounted offerings from island vendors.

Do you offer a financial award?

We offer Visual Arts artists-in-residence a one-time, fixed $1,500 financial award. The honorarium can be applied towards anything of the artists’ choosing.

Do you offer housing?

While we would like to offer that in the future, currently we do not.

What is the review process for this Open Call? The review process is conducted in two phases. In the first, each applicant is evaluated internally by Dark Lab staff for technical ability, uniqueness of vision, and the potential for future or repeat success—with special consideration for those who've followed nontraditional career paths.

Each applicant receives a score, with the highest scorers sent to a panel of external jurors for the second phase. Composed of art professionals and alumni residents, the jury in the second phase reviews the semi-finalists' applications to assess diversity in terms of not only demographics but also media; whether there is genuine need for a studio; and whether they would benefit from the unique, public-facing culture of Dark Lab. Each cohort is carefully chosen to be eclectic, wide-ranging, and suited to Dark Lab.

The juries will convene in May, after which the finalists will be contacted. We will notify all applicants about the status of their applications by Juneteenth.

Do you offer portfolio feedback?

Unfortunately, we do not due to the volume of applications received.

I have another question that is not addressed here.

Please reach out to darklaboratory2020@gmail.com