Chicago's New Sound Art Fellowship Program Launches
Fellowship program offers 6-month residency, $15,000 stipend, and studio space for sound artists to create site-specific works in Chicago's historic spaces.
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) introduces an innovative fellowship program dedicated to sound art and acoustic installations. The Urban Soundscapes Fellowship aims to transform Chicago's historic spaces through site-specific sound installations.
This inaugural program will select three fellows to develop and install sound-based works in designated locations throughout Chicago's cultural corridors. The fellowship represents a significant investment in experimental art forms and provides substantial support for sound artists.
Fellowship Benefits:
- $15,000 stipend
- Dedicated studio space in the Chicago Cultural Center
- Professional recording equipment access
- Technical support and mentorship
- Exhibition opportunity
- Documentation and promotion
Eligible Disciplines:
- Sound art
- Experimental music
- Audio installation
- Sound sculpture
- Acoustic ecology projects
Program Structure:
- 6-month residency period
- Monthly professional development workshops
- Collaboration with local sound engineers
- Public engagement events
- Final installation in selected city spaces
Requirements:
- Previous experience in sound-based arts
- Ability to commit to full residency period
- Interest in site-specific work
- Strong project proposal
- Willingness to engage with public audiences
Selected artists will work closely with DCASE staff and technical advisors to develop their projects. The program emphasizes both artistic excellence and community engagement, with opportunities for public workshops and artist talks throughout the fellowship period.
Application Materials:
- Portfolio of previous sound works
- Project proposal
- Technical requirements
- Artist statement
- Two professional references
- Sample public engagement plan
This fellowship represents Chicago's commitment to supporting experimental art forms and activating public spaces through innovative artistic practices. The program particularly encourages proposals that engage with the city's acoustic heritage and contemporary urban soundscapes.
How to Apply
Submission Guidelines
Applications must include: portfolio of 3-5 sound art works (audio files, video documentation, or written scores), artist statement (500 words max) describing artistic practice and interest in site-specific work, project proposal (750 words max) outlining intended work for Chicago residency, CV/resume, and two professional references. All audio files should be in MP3 or WAV format, video files in MP4 or MOV format (max 10MB each). Applications accepted from emerging and established sound artists working in experimental music, sound installation, audio art, or acoustic ecology.
Actionable Steps
1. Visit the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs website and review current Individual Artist Program guidelines and deadlines
2. Prepare required materials: sound art portfolio, artist statement, project proposal, CV, and references
3. Create an account on the city's grant application portal and complete the online application form
4. Upload all required documents and media files following format specifications
5. Submit application before the deadline and save confirmation receipt for your records
Application & Contact
Application URL: https://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/provdrs/chicago_office_of_tourism_and_culture/svcs/individual_artist_program.html
Contact: Email: dca.info@cityofchicago.org, Phone: (312) 744-6630, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago, IL 60602