Fellowship in American Art
SAAM fellowships support in-residence, interdisciplinary research in American art, craft, and visual culture using Smithsonian collections and resources.
Funder: Smithsonian American Art Museum
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (SIFP/SAAM & Betsy James Wyeth Fellowship) | February 2027 (Audrey Flack Short-Term Fellowship)
Funding Amounts: Predoctoral: $45,000/year; Postdoctoral & Senior: $57,000/year; Graduate: $10,000/10 weeks; Short-term: $5,000/month; plus up to $5,000 research allowance and relocation/health insurance support.
Summary: Supports residential research in American art, craft, and visual culture using Smithsonian collections and resources.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all dates are projected—verify with the program page.
Description
The Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) and Renwick Gallery offer the oldest and largest fellowship program for the study of American art. The program is designed for scholars from any discipline whose research engages with the art, craft, and visual culture of the United States. Fellows are expected to conduct full-time, residential research at the Smithsonian, utilizing SAAM’s extensive collections, specialized research centers, library, archives, and professional staff. The program encourages innovative approaches, interdisciplinary research, and projects that expand the narratives of American art, including those led by international scholars and those working outside traditional art history.
A variety of fellowships are available, including the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP), named SAAM fellowships, the Betsy James Wyeth Fellowship in Native American Art, and the Audrey Flack Short-Term Fellowship. All fellows benefit from a vibrant scholarly community, professional development activities, and opportunities for public engagement and publication.
