How to Apply for the Core Residency Program at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
**The Glassell School of Art at MFAH Expands Opportunities for Emerging Artists with Enhanced Core Residency Program**
The Glassell School of Art, an integral part of the esteemed Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), has announced transformational updates to its renowned Core Residency Program for visual artists and art critics. Since its inception in 1982, this program has been a pivotal platform for fostering creative talent, and the recent changes further underscore its commitment to supporting emerging creatives.
**A Comprehensive Two-Year Residency**
Now structured as a two-year residency, the program will cater to the needs of visionary artists and writers, enabling them to build sustainable practices. The residency will run from September 2025 to July 2027 and provides a competitive fellowship award of $100,000—divided into $50,000 per year—along with a health stipend over the 23-month term. These changes represent a significant development, reflecting the MFAH’s dedication to empowering its participants financially and professionally.
**Facilities, Mentorship, and a Thriving Network**
One of the standout features of this program is the breadth of resources and mentorship offered. Each Core Fellow benefits from dedicated studio space and periodic studio visits by prominent artists and curators, promoting innovative development and critical feedback essential to growth.
In addition, fellows can explore discounted classes at the Glassell School of Art and request access to the school’s state-of-the-art studio facilities. These include specialized spaces for painting, printmaking, digital and film photography, sculpture, ceramics, and even jewelry. Combining individualized mentoring and world-class facilities, the program ensures that participants receive the tools and connections necessary to elevate their craft.
**Immersion in the World-Class MFAH Collection**
Fellows are granted access to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, a treasure trove of artistic inspiration, boasting a globally renowned gallery collection. They are also invited to explore the museum’s two historic house museums dedicated to American and European decorative arts. For scholarly research, fellows enjoy borrowing privileges at both the Hirsch Library at the MFAH and the nearby Fondren Library at Rice University, ensuring a robust intellectual dimension to the residency. This access underscores the program’s unique advantage of situating emerging creatives within one of the United States’ most vibrant cultural hubs.
**Welcoming Local and International Talent**
The Core Residency Program actively encourages applicants from around the world but maintains a thoughtful connection to its local community. In cases where candidates hold similarly distinguished qualifications, priority will be extended to Harris County-based artists or critics. This localized emphasis highlights the program’s dual mission of fostering global artistic exchange while supporting its immediate creative ecosystem.
**Application Process and Timeline**
Up to four Core Fellows will be selected for the 2025–2027 cohort by a distinguished jury of arts professionals. Selection criteria include the quality of the submitted work and the residency’s potential impact on the applicant’s artistic or critical practice. Interested candidates must apply by April 1, paying a nominal fee of $12. Successful applicants will be informed of their selection on June 9, providing adequate time to prepare for this life-changing opportunity.
**A Commitment to Creativity**
With these updates, the MFAH’s Glassell School of Art further solidifies its role as a champion of emerging artists and art critics. The program’s generous financial support, access to unparalleled resources, and emphasis on mentorship provide a nurturing yet challenging environment for inventive minds. As a result, the Core Residency Program continues to shape the trajectory of contemporary art and discourse, leaving a lasting impact on its participants and on the broader art world.
For those seeking to push boundaries, hone their voices, and immerse themselves in a vibrant artistic community, the Core Residency Program offers an unparalleled platform. Emerging artists and critics worldwide are encouraged to seize this opportunity and apply today.
For more details, visit [mfah.org](https://bit.ly/42aeMLr).