Call for 2026 Proposals: Grand Canyon Conservancy Residency Program

Live, Create, and Inspire at Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon Conservancy is excited to announce the call for applications for the 2026 Artist and Astronomer in Residence Program. This prestigious opportunity invites artists and astronomers to live and work at Grand Canyon National Park for a 4–8 week immersive residency. Applications are open from May 15 through July 15, 2025.

About the Residency Program

Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Residency Program offers a unique opportunity for artists and astronomers to connect their work with one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Participants live at Grand Canyon National Park, housed in the historic 1,100 sq. ft. Verkamp’s Apartment with breathtaking canyon views and access to an International Dark Sky Park’s pristine night skies. The residency supports creative exploration that inspires visitors, celebrates cultural and environmental stewardship, and contributes to the legacy of Grand Canyon storytelling.

Application Details

Applications for the 2026 Residency Program will be open from May 15 through July 15, 2025, and must be submitted through either the Artist in Residence or Astronomer in Residence "call for entry" platform. Selected participants will be notified November 1, 2025, and residency terms will take place throughout 2026, lasting between 4 and 8 weeks. 

Who Should Apply

Grand Canyon Conservancy welcomes applications from experienced artists and astronomers who are passionate about creatively engaging the public in environmental stewardship, cultural awareness, and/or the preservation of our natural resources. 

Applicants should be passionate about connecting international visitors to the natural and cultural heritage of Grand Canyon National Park.

We strongly encourage applications from artists and astronomers that come from historically underrepresented communities - especially our Indigenous knowledge-keepers.

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to public engagement and have a developed body of work that focuses on environmental stewardship, dark sky advocacy and/or cultural histories.

A peer review panel will select three artists and three astronomers for this prestigious residency.

Residency Benefits

• Private housing at Verkamp’s Apartment.
• Stipend, travel funding, and supply support.
• Exclusive park access for research and inspiration.
• Promotional exposure through Grand Canyon Conservancy’s platforms.

GCC's Commitment to Inclusivity and Community Engagement

Through the Residency Program, Grand Canyon Conservancy aims to elevate historically marginalized communities and celebrate diverse voices, including Indigenous residents and neighbors. The Artist and Astronomer in Residence Program provides opportunities to engage the public with essential topics on environmental stewardship, cultural awareness, and the preservation of our natural resources. 

Ready to Inspire at Grand Canyon?

Submit your application between May 15–July 15, 2025 and become part of a tradition of creative excellence and public engagement at Grand Canyon National Park.

Apply to the Artist in Residence Program
Apply to the Astronomer in Residence Program

For more information about the Artist and Astronomer in Residence program, please visit the Residency Program page or FAQ page on our website, or contact Clover Morell at cmorell@grandcanyon.org.  

About Grand Canyon Conservancy

Grand Canyon Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, raising private funds, operating retail shops within the park, and providing educational programs about the natural and cultural history of the region. Our members fund projects including trails and historic building preservation, educational programs for the public, and the protection of wildlife and their natural habitat. Grand Canyon Conservancy inspires generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon. For more information, visit www.grandcanyon.org.