SURF Artist-in-Residence Program 2027: Open Call for Artists

What it is

A four-week on-site artist residency at an underground scientific research facility in South Dakota, followed by an October exhibition visit. Artists develop new work inspired by the facility's scientific experiments, underground landscape, and mining history, and engage with researchers and the local community.

Who it is for

Artists of any discipline who can work safely in underground spaces and are interested in engaging with scientific research, industrial heritage, and the unique environment of the Sanford Underground Research Facility.

Eligibility unconfirmed. Check the residency and nationality rules on the source before applying.

Where

Lead, South Dakota, International

When

November 1, 2026, 11 days left

Runs May 22, 2027 to July 31, 2027

What you get

$5,000 stipend plus up to $5,000 in project funding, transportation support, housing and per diem, studio space, guided facility tours, exhibition opportunity with guest lectures, and artwork shipping up to $7,000.

What you need to apply

• Artistic project proposal describing the artist's interests and proposed approach to the facility
• Confirmation of ability to work safely underground, follow safety procedures, and walk on uneven surfaces for at least one mile at a time

How long it takes

About 4 hours

Medium application. Estimated from the 2 items this application asks for, not from the organisation.

Cost to apply

Free

Apply

https://sanfordlab.org/programs/SURFAiR/application