Cleveland Museum's Digital Archives Artist Fellowship
Year-long paid fellowship to help digitize and create new artworks from the museum's extensive historical photograph and document archives.
The Cleveland Museum of History is launching an innovative fellowship program that bridges art and archival preservation. This paid opportunity invites digital artists to work with the museum's vast collection of historical photographs, documents, and ephemera dating back to the 1800s. The selected fellow will spend one year helping digitize important materials while also creating new digital artworks inspired by and incorporating elements from the archives. The position includes a $45,000 stipend, healthcare benefits, dedicated studio space, and access to the museum's digitization equipment and software. Fellows will be expected to produce 2-3 major digital art pieces for exhibition, contribute to the museum's ongoing digitization efforts, and conduct at least two public workshops sharing their creative process. The ideal candidate will have experience in digital art creation, knowledge of archival preservation best practices, and a demonstrated interest in history and cultural heritage. The fellowship aims to explore innovative ways to bring historical archives into conversation with contemporary digital art practices. Studio space and equipment access is provided on-site at the museum's new Digital Labs facility.
How to Apply
Submission Guidelines
The Cleveland Museum of Art accepts applications for their Artist Fellowship program through their Community Arts Partnership initiative. Applications must include: a completed application form, artist statement (500 words maximum), project proposal outlining how you would engage with digital archives or museum collections, portfolio of 10-15 recent works (digital format), CV/resume, two professional references, and a budget proposal. Preference given to Ohio-based artists with experience in digital media, photography, or archival work. Fellowship provides $25,000 stipend plus studio space and mentorship.
Actionable Steps
1. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art's grants and fellowships webpage to review current opportunities and download application materials
2. Prepare your portfolio of 10-15 digital works, artist statement (500 words max), and project proposal focusing on digital archives or museum collection engagement
3. Complete the online application form and upload all required materials including CV, references, and budget proposal
4. Submit application by the posted deadline and follow up with the Community Arts department to confirm receipt
Application & Contact
Application URL: https://www.clevelandart.org/support/grants-and-fellowships
Contact: Email: communityarts@clevelandart.org, Phone: +1-216-421-7340