As part of its developing Core Program, the Modern Ancient Brown Foundation is accepting applications from recent Bachelor and M.(F).A graduates for its Residency in Studio Art and Critical Studies. The Residency is intended to support studio practitioners and artists seeking to develop their work in dialogue with Critical Studies. In Fall of 2026 and in Spring 2027, up to two residents at a time will be selected to share a 1,000 square foot studio space. Each resident will also receive a monthly materials stipend and, for those not based in Detroit, a housing stipend will be provided, comparable to the median rent in the city. The intent is to encourage those selected to take the time and space to explore their chosen medium(s), participate in 1–2 critique sessions centered around their work, and engage with the broader Detroit arts community. The Foundation highly encourages artists in Detroit, Michigan, and artists based in the Great Lakes Region to apply.

Residents will have ample opportunities to interact with the broader Metro-Detroit community of artists, writers, and scholars, facilitated as appropriate by the Foundation. The minimal commitment asked of each Resident will involve consistent use of the studio space, participation in crits and mentoring, participation in one dinner conversation at the Foundation, permission to publish some of the work undertaken at the Foundation in the Foundation’s forthcoming annual publication. We also ask that the Foundation be acknowledged upon publication or exhibition of work supported by the Foundation.

The application portal opens on February 19, 2026.

The application deadline: March 23, 2026.

Recipients will be notified by the end of May 2026

Application package: You should submit your completed application in PDF to the Foundation’s Slideroom. Any inquiries can be made to postbacresidency@mab-foundation.com

Your application must include the following, condensed into one PDF document:

1. A current curriculum vitae.

2. Up to 15 images of your work placed in chronological order. Be sure to indicate title, medium/media, size, and date.

3. Statement of purpose (500–750 words). The statement of purpose should offer a brief life history and should then speak to your artistic interests, the emerging directions in your practice, influences upon your work in addition to a critical relationship to your chosen field. The statement of purpose should also address why you are applying for this program at this time.

4. A budget that outlines your projected per diem, materials costs and housing (if not based in Detroit).

5. Names and contact details (emails) of two references who have agreed to write on your behalf. Please do not send reference letters.