Invitation for Applications: Roman Witt Residency Program at the University of Michigan
**Roman J. Witt Residency Program: Fostering Artistic Innovation at the University of Michigan**
The Roman J. Witt Residency Program is a distinguished initiative at the University of Michigan designed to support the creation of new work by both established and emerging artists and designers. Each academic year, the program awards a single residency, offering a significant opportunity for artists worldwide to engage with the university’s vibrant community.
**Residency Benefits and Support**
The 12-week residency includes an honorarium of $20,000, along with housing, studio space, and an additional $10,000 in funding for materials, research, and development. These provisions enable Witt Residents to fully immerse themselves in their creative process without the immediate pressures of financial constraints.
**Collaboration with the Institute for the Humanities**
For the 2026–27 academic year, the Witt Residency is organized in collaboration with the University of Michigan Institute for the Humanities (IH). This partnership ensures that the resident artist is not only engaged with the Stamps School of Art & Design but also with the broader intellectual community at the university. A crucial element of the residency involves direct interaction with students and faculty, fostering an environment of shared learning and innovation.
**Utilization of IH Contemporary Gallery**
The IH will offer its contemporary gallery as an installation and project venue. Known for its progressive approach and critical inquiry, the gallery is a vital space for addressing complex and timely issues through art. Exhibitions here bridge the gap between humanities research and real-world problems, supporting social practice and public engagement.
**Residency Timeline and Presentation Opportunities**
The chosen resident for 2026–2027 will start planning sessions remotely during the Fall 2026 semester and will be on-site in Ann Arbor for the Winter 2027 semester. The culmination of the residency will be an exhibition opening in Fall 2027. Additionally, the resident will have the opportunity to present a lecture or presentation as part of the Penny Stamps Speaker Series, sharing insights and fostering dialogue with a broader audience.
**Profile of Past Residents**
Performance artist Stacey Kirby was the resident for 2025, followed by interdisciplinary artist Holly Bass in 2026. These artists exemplify the variety and caliber of creative figures the program attracts, highlighting the program’s commitment to diverse artistic expressions.
**Application Process**
Proposals for the 2026–27 Witt Residency can be submitted until January 15, 2026. Interested applicants must apply through the online review platform SlideRoom, with a nominal submission fee of $15, which supports the platform’s hosting services.
For further information and application details, prospective applicants and interested parties are encouraged to visit [stamps.umich.edu](https://bit.ly/3LMBump). This program is a remarkable opportunity for artists to explore new dimensions in their work within a supportive and dynamic academic setting.