ARTIST IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM

The PES Artist In Residence Program is an annual initiative that invites four visual artists to Newark, NJ, to create work around social impact. The mission of the program is multifaceted and is intended to benefit both artists in residence and a larger audience. The program strives to create a symbiotic relationship between the artist and audience as a conduit for new artistic practice and intervention. 

At its core, the PES AIR program was created to support artists who are interested in social engagement. It achieves this by providing studio space for two years; providing unrestricted honoraria; cultivating professional development opportunities such as studio visits and critical feedback meetings; facilitating community programs with the artist’s work; and finally, presenting a solo exhibition of the artists’ work towards the end of their cycle. 

The program strives to not only support individual artists; but also, to cultivate conversation around social equity and engagement that are often swept by the wayside. We see the AIR program as a bridge between artist and community, as well as community and community, to push important dialogues forward. 

The PES AIR Program is currently in its ninth cycle. Past Artists In Residence include Adama Delphine Fawundu, Amy Khoshbin, Andrea Chung, Azikiwe Mohammed, Damien Davis, Daphne Arthur, David Antonio Cruz, Delano Dunn, Derrick Adams, Heather Hart, Helina Metaferia, Jake Troyli, Jaret Vadera, JC Lenochan, Kambui Olujimi, Layqa Nuna Yawar, Lina Puerta, Nadia Estela, Nina Chanel Abney, Noelle Lorraine Williams, Renluka Maharaj, Richard Hart, Ron Norsworthy, Shoshanna Weinberger, Victoria-Idongesit Udondian, and Wardell Milan.

We are pleased to announce the open call for the January 2026 - December 2027 Artist In Residence Program. Now in Cycle 10, this two-year residency invites four visual artists to join our Newark, NJ–based community to create work that centers social impact and engagement. Learn more and apply here!