Applications for Monira Residencies CHICAGO open March 30 – May 1, 2026
The Program
The Monira Foundation’s Residency program in Chicago for 2026–27 provides time and space for interdisciplinary artists to focus on a specific project. Beginning in mid-September 2026, up to two artists or collaborative groups will each be granted six-month access to our project space in Chicago to develop new work or continue an ambitious ongoing body of work.
This residency emphasizes self-sufficiency and project focus. Artists will work independently in a flexible studio or gallery-style space and are expected to shape their schedules. The program supports experimentation and cross-disciplinary practices and is designed for artists ready to lead their own process. Residents must participate in a public Open House during their term, sharing their work-in-progress, research, or project outcomes with the community in a format of their choosing. A stipend will be announced before the start of the residency. We are actively fundraising to support artist stipends and will share confirmed amounts as soon as they are available. In addition to studio space and time, selected artists will be featured on Monira’s social media and communication platforms throughout the residency. Our studio is approximately 20 sqft x 50 sqft. It has a performance floor, tables, and stools. Pictures and the floor layout are just below.
Eligibility
Applications are open to individual artists or collaborative groups working across disciplines, including but not limited to visual art, installation, movement, sound, social practice, performance, research, and time-based media. We strongly encourage artists whose work is not clearly defined by a a specific process, who will actively engage with a studio for the duration of the program.
This residency is best suited for Chicago-based artists or those within commuting distance. It is designed for those motivated by a specific project who can clearly articulate their goals for the residency. Applicants should thrive in self-directed environments and be comfortable managing their time and resources. They should also be interested in sharing their process with the public as part of a community-driven institution.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and not currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program.
Residency Periods
Residency 1: September 15, 2026, to March 12, 2027
Residency 2: March 16, 2027, to September 10, 2027