The Smithsonian American Art Museum's Fellowship in American Art supports innovative, in-depth research on American art, craft, and visual culture using Smithsonian collections and expertise.
Funder: Smithsonian American Art Museum
Due Dates: October 15, 2026 (SIFP/American Art & Betsy James Wyeth) | February 1, 2027 (Audrey Flack Short-Term)
Funding Amounts: SIFP: $45,000/year (predoc), $57,000/year (postdoc/senior), plus up to $5,000 research allowance; Wyeth: $53,000 + research/travel/health allowances; Flack: $5,000 + $100–$1,000 travel.
Summary: Residential fellowships supporting innovative research on American art, craft, and visual culture, with access to Smithsonian collections and scholarly community.
Key Information: Separate applications required for SIFP, Betsy James Wyeth, and Audrey Flack fellowships.
The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) offers a range of prestigious residential fellowships for scholars at various career stages whose research engages with American art, craft, and visual culture. The program, the oldest and largest of its kind, fosters scholarly innovation and diversity of perspectives, providing fellows with access to extensive collections, archives, and expert staff. Fellowships are available through the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP), as well as specialized awards such as the Betsy James Wyeth Fellowship in Native American Art and the Audrey Flack Short-Term Fellowship. Fellows participate in a vibrant scholarly community, benefit from professional development opportunities, and are expected to conduct full-time, on-site research in Washington, D.C.