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Become Our Next Artist-in-Residence
We’re seeking applications for next year’s Artists-in-Residence! We began hosting two-month long exhibits in 1996 and launched our Artist-in-Residence program in 2015 to celebrate local arts and artists. The program has hosted over 30 artists since then, highlighting the diversity of art forms present in the Fox Cities.
Each residency lasts three consecutive months with artists providing three engagement events for library patrons (e.g. workshops, demonstrations, lectures) and display work in the Rick and Sue Detienne Gallery on our upper level. Artists receive a $600 honorarium and up to $250 for program supplies (funded by the Friends of the Appleton Public Library), coordinated studio space, and promotion of art and residency through our communication outlets.
Artists are selected with support from a curation team including artists Ally Wilber, Cristian Andersson, and Willow Bayer. For more information on our curators or to contact us with questions, visit our Artist-in-Residence page.
Applications are open November 1, 2025 to January 4, 2026.
Application Form
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the expectations of selected artists?
During the three-month residency, artists will display their work in the Rick and Sue Detienne Gallery on our upper level and facilitate three engagement events. Residences will be customized to artist experience and residency events are flexible around dates and times, audience age, and location within the library.
What is the payment?
We offer an honorarium of $600 to artists, payable after the successful completion of their program, thanks to the support of Friends of Appleton Public Library. Artists are required to submit a completed W-9 form upon accepting their residency.
Who schedules events?
Events are planned and scheduled in partnership with the artist and library staff.
How will I share my art?
Pieces that fit flat on a wall will be displayed in the Rick and Sue Detienne Gallery on our upper level. For other works, displays will be showcased in locations throughout the library.
What are engagement events like?
We plan for one event each month, which fits the medium and style of each artist. Generally an artist’s events include a mix of lecture, workshop, and demonstration. Examples include:
Meet the Artist: In a lecture format, the artist can share their journey in art, their artistic process, and discuss specific pieces of art. This event is 60 minutes with an additional 20-30 minutes set aside for question and answer.
Artist Workshop: Guide participants through the process of creating art in a specific medium. This is an opportunity to inspire artistic expression and invite community members to try something new. A workshop event typically runs 90 minutes.
Demonstration: Give participants an in-depth look into your artistic process. Create a work, in part or in whole, while carefully explaining each step along the way. A typical demonstration runs 90 minutes.
Other event ideas are welcome. We appreciate trying something new as we seek to create enriching experiences for artists and participants.
Who markets the events?
Spreading the word about events is a joint effort between the artist and APL staff. We’ll showcase events on our online calendar, social media, email, and print materials. We expect artists to share their events through their own communication channels and artistic communities.
Can artists sell their work?
Yes. Artists are welcome to sell their work on display, although the library does not take payment or post prices on gallery pieces.
Can an artist display work in the Rick and Sue Detienne Gallery without becoming an Artist-in-Residence?
Yes. There may be opportunities for artists to display their work. Interested artists can reach out by visiting our Artist-in-Residence page and filling out the contact form at the bottom of the page.
Can an artist provide an engagement event without becoming an Artist-in-Residence?
Yes. We’re happy to learn more about potential opportunities for artists who want to share their expertise with the community. Visit our program proposal page to learn more.