Core Program at Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH)

Critical studies fellowships are offered to highly motivated, exceptional critical writers or curators who have completed their undergraduate or graduate training and are working to develop a sustainable practice. The Core Program offers a unique opportunity for these practitioners to engage with emerging artists in an intensive peer group. Core artists and critical studies fellows participate in a yearlong seminar, the content of which is driven by contemporary concerns, the interests and work of the fellows, and the Core lecture series and visitors. Critical studies fellows may apply for support for a curatorial project in their second year.

During the Core term, distinguished artists, critics, curators, and scholars are invited to meet individually with the residents, lead seminars, and deliver public lectures. Past and upcoming visitors include Charles Gaines, Krista Thompson, Martha Rosler, Kaja Silverman, Stan Douglas, Fred Moten, Emily Jacir, Darby English, Lauren Berlant, Helen Molesworth, David Hartt, Gerard Byrne, Naeem Mohaiemen, Huey Copeland, Sharon Hayes, Hamza Walker, Lawrence Abu Hamdan, and Tania Bruguera.

The residency term is nine months, from September to May, and fellows may apply for a second term. Each spring the program mounts an exhibition of work produced by the artists during the residency, which is accompanied by a publication to which the critical studies residents contribute texts based on their original research. Residents receive a 20,000 USD stipend, 24-hour access to a private studio or office, and borrowing privileges at the Museum’s Hirsch Library and Rice University’s Fondren Library. Because the program is intended to foster intensive participation in an active peer group, including regular seminar meetings, Core fellows must reside in Houston for the duration of the Core term.

Limited administrative and financial support is available for successful international applicants seeking J-1 visas through the program’s partner organization, International Arts & Artists. No support is provided for obtaining other visas.

How to apply

Applications for the 2022–23 Core term are due 1 April 2022. All application materials must be submitted online though SlideRoom. There is an application fee of $12.

The applications must include:
A. Statement of Intent

1. Please discuss your work and artistic goals in a personal as well as a critical context. Limit your statement to 600 words.
2. Why is this the right time for you to participate in the Core Program, and what do you hope to gain from the residency? Limit your answer to 300 words.

B. CV Upload your CV as a PDF file, two page maximum
C. Three Letters of Recommendation
D. Work Sample: Your work sample should contain work produced in the last three years. Please limit “Description” to 30 words per work sample.

Find the details of the application process here. For the overall programme, visit MFAH's website.