Following the application deadline, submissions will be reviewed by an advisory board composed of representatives from the San Francisco Estuary Partnership and partnering organizations. Applications will be evaluated based on the quality of the proposed project, artistic approach, alignment with the 2026 residency theme, Rising Seas, and the applicant’s ability to participate in the residency.

Because the advisory board brings together a range of professional backgrounds and perspectives, applicants are encouraged to provide clear descriptions of their artistic practice, proposed project, and how their work connects to the residency theme.

Applications will be reviewed throughout November 2026. Selected artists or artist groups will be invited to interview, and references may be contacted during the final stage of the review process. Up to three artists (individuals and/or artist groups) will be selected for the 2026 Artist-in-Residence Program. All applicants will be notified of their application status by email.

The residency will take place from December through May 2027, followed by a public exhibition in summer 2027.

A quick overview of the program’s timeline highlights includes: 

• Application Period: Mid-October – Mid-November 
• Application Deadline: November 20, 2026
• Residency Period: December 7, 2026 – May 31, 2027 
• Exhibit Period: May 3, 2027 – June 30, 2027