The Artist in Residence program at Bloomington Public Library welcomes creative individuals from many different backgrounds, such as painters, photographers, illustrators, digital sculptors, sewists, embroiderers, graphic designers, and any other type of artist who has a talent they would like to share. Over an eight-week period during the spring of 2026 (any eight-week period between March 1-May 31), the chosen artist will share their skills and creative processes with small groups of teens and adults in the library’s Innovation Lab, inspiring our community to explore new forms of art and expression.
Residency Expectations
Public Workshops/Classes (4 Sessions):
Artist-in-Residence will offer a total of four (4) hands-on public classes or workshops in the Innovation Lab at the Bloomington Public Library.
Each class will be 2 hours in length.
Classes should relate to the artist's specific discipline and be designed to engage a diverse public audience.
Drop-in Consultation/Q&A Sessions (4 Sessions):
Artist-in-Residence will be available for a total of four (4) "Ask the Artist" drop-in sessions.
Each Q&A session will last 1 hour.
Q&A sessions will allow class participants to ask questions about their projects, receive help, and discuss general ideas.
Final Project/Presentation:
Artist-in-Residence will produce a final, public-facing component to conclude the residency. This may include an exhibit, reading, performance, or demonstration of the work created during the residency.
Programs should maintain standards set forth in the Library's Mission Statement:
Missions Statement: Bloomington Public Library provides its diverse community with a helpful and welcoming place that offers equitable access to the world of ideas and information and supports lifelong learning.
Compensation/Stipend:
Compensation/Stipend:
Stipend: $400
Other: Upon approval, the library will purchase all necessary supplies and materials as recommended by the artist.
Location
All Artist in Residence programs will take place in Bloomington Public Library’s Innovation Lab — a creative, hands-on space equipped with a wide variety of tools and technology. The Lab features two 3D printers (including a multi-color printer), a Cricut cutting machine, a Glowforge laser cutter, a heat press, a sublimation printer, a sublimination oven, sewing and embroidery machines, a photography light box, and laptops loaded with Adobe Creative Suite and Affinity Design Studio. Artists and participants will also have access to drawing tablets, adjustable worktables, a projector, and both traditional and green screen setups. The Lab comfortably accommodates 15–20 students simultaneously and is open during all regular library hours. Use of the space is by reservation only, with bookings required at least 24 hours in advance by both staff and the public.
What We Need From You
No later than January 15, 2026, interested parties should submit the following via email to techprogramming@bloomingtonlibrary.org:
A short description of your program proposal
Work examples - Include either a link to a page that showcases your work or attach multiple photographs of your work
A copy of your resume attached to the email (please make sure that the resume includes your current contact information)