NVAM Fellowship

empowering our country’s veteran artists

Inaugural NVAM Fellowship Program

The primary mission of the NVAM Fellowship is to create genuine spaces for connection and engagement between veteran-artists and the public. The key outcomes aim to build a shared sense of purpose and connectedness between veterans who served in the US Armed Services and the public.

Our vision is to create art-based programs led by artists that connect the experiences of our veterans through art. This fellowship will focus on strengthening both personal and professional development for our veteran-artists in key areas.

Socially Engaged Art-based Service Projects

Fostering connection between veteran artists to the communities that they belong to, our Fellows understand the value of their service and the importance of continuing to serve others through their artistic practice.

Freedom of Creative Expression

Fellows are curious about the evolution of their service and know that they have more to give beyond their time in uniform. The commitment to artistic practice brings a better understanding of self in collaboration with community.

Growth Mindset & Resilience

Fellows understand that support comes in many ways and an artistic practice is a commitment to building capacity for understanding personal life values that drive creative practices in a positive way.

Time to reflect inward, space to share outward

NVAM Fellows will be granted $5K - $30K (based on need) to develop an exhibition and workshop that is core to their artistic practice. Fellows will also be provided with an advisor for mentorship from professional artists both veteran and non-veteran.

As a result, NVAM Fellows will be able to expand their professional art practice in the community through developing and delivering formal artist talks, leading workshops, and the opportunity to activate the NVAM collection through a hybrid residency.

Applications Now Open! Due Jan 15, 2025

Apply if:

1. You are a practicing veteran artist.

2. You want to be engaged with the veteran artist community in practice and conversation.

3. You're at a stage in your career where community, leadership development, mentorship, and an exhibition will be impactful in your growth as an artist.


Advisors & Mentors

NVAM Fellows are matched with professional artists who are both veteran and non-veteran to guide your work, exhibition, and growth as a professional artist.

Financial Grant

Fellows will be granted $5k - $30k based on need to develop a workshop and an exhibition that is core to their artistic practice.

Exhibition

The fellowship culminates in a public exhibition at the National Veterans Art Museum in Chicago where your work is on display with a community of veterans, artists, and local leaders. Fellows will share their story of service and artistic expression in a dialogue centered on understanding.

Ready to apply? Apply now.

We can’t wait to read your application!