_OFCOLOR, in partnership with the Austin Public Library (APL), is pleased to announce the Emerging Curator Residency, beginning January 2026. This seven-month program offers an exceptional opportunity for an early-career curator to gain hands-on experience working closely with seasoned curators, a community-focused arts organization, and one of Austin’s most dynamic public cultural spaces.

About the Residency

The selected Emerging Curator will:

Work alongside experienced Mentoring Curators to develop and present an original exhibition at APL.
Assist in the presentation of ongoing exhibitions at APL.
Collaborate on educational initiatives, public programs, and community engagement strategies designed to foster social interaction, creative exchange, and audience participation.
Explore tools, templates, technological enhancements, and funding strategies that support sustainable public programming.

Support & Resources

Stipend of $1000 provided by the Curation Residency team.
Additional support, promotions, and program execution.
Staff guidance from _OFCOLOR and APL teams.
Mentorship and feedback from experienced curators and arts professionals.

Eligibility
We welcome applications from emerging curators with demonstrated interest in exhibition-making, community engagement, and experimental approaches to arts programming. Applicants should show commitment to diverse perspectives, social impact, and innovation in curatorial practice.

Selection
The selection panel includes _OFCOLOR curators, members of the Austin Public Library Art Council, and the residency’s Mentoring Curators.

Residency Participation Requirements: (Need to work this out more)

Must be attend monthly meetings
- 4th Thursday of every month
  - 3pm-8pm
Must attend month office hours in order

Application Requirements
To apply, please submit the following materials:

Statement of Intent (outlining curatorial interests and goals for the residency)
Curriculum Vitae and Curation Bio
Portfolio of previous curatorial projects

Important Dates: