BLM seeks summer artist-in-residence applicants

Last year’s Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument Artist-in-Residence was Paul Atkinson, a photographer who spent his time studying and photographing the monument’s unique landscapes, like the photo at left. Another artist-in-residence, Alisha Whitman, created watercolors during her residency, like the one at right. BLM courtesy photos
February 14, 2026

Residency to take place in the Rogue Wild and Scenic River Corridor

By Alissa Corman, Rogue Valley Times

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) officials are accepting applications for the agency’s annual summer artist-in-residence programs: one at the historic Rogue River Ranch National Historic Site and another at the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument.

The selected artists will have the opportunity to capture these public lands during a milestone year as the Nation marks its 250th birthday and the BLM celebrates its 80th anniversary.

As part of the 2026 program, selected artists will also be part of the Freedom 250 celebration, paying tribute to the historic sites and special lands that have contributed to the nation’s heritage.

The artists will receive one- to two-week residencies during the summer — June through August — to create original work while immersed in some of Oregon’s most remarkable environments.

“Artists provide a captivating lens through which we can explore our connection to public lands,” said Joel Brumm, Assistant Monument Manager. “Their work provides a unique perspective on these remarkable landscapes, highlighting our mission and role in public land management as we celebrate our 80th anniversary.”

The Rogue River Ranch residency will take place deep in the Rogue Wild and Scenic River Corridor where the selected artist will reside in the historic house. The remote outpost is a two-hour drive or a 22-mile river trip from Grave Creek Boat Ramp.

Artists of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, and there is no preference given to any style or medium.

Following their residency, the artist will share their work in a public presentation at the Grants Pass Museum of Art on Oct. 2; work will be displayed at the museum for one month and then returned to the artist.

For the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument residency, the selected artist will be based in a travel trailer at Hyatt Lake Campground while exploring the environment and creating their art.

The BLM is seeking visual artists for this residency.

During their residency, the artist will give a public presentation to share their experience and artistic vision. Following the residency, artists are asked to donate an original artwork piece, which they will retain the rights to.

Since 2017, the Artist-in-Residence program has allowed numerous artists to transform the monument’s natural and cultural resources into visual art, objects, and performances.

Artists interested in the Rogue River Ranch National Historic Site residency can learn more information and download an application at the artist-in-residence website (on.doi.gov/4tgJqOg), by e-mailing Tony Saunders at [email protected], or by calling 541-471-6642.

Information and applications for the CSNM residency can be found online at the artist-in-residence website (on.doi.gov/4tgJqOg), by e-mailing John Duwe at [email protected], or by calling 541-618-2320.

Applications must be submitted by Feb. 28.

This story first appeared in the Rogue Valley Times.

Picture of Cameron Aalto

Cameron Aalto

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