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 of resources 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 for 2026 Fellow Closed
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 of resources 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.
Application is currently closed for 2026 Fellowship.