The Two Harbors Public Library is a cornerstone of the community dedicated to lifelong learning, connection, and inclusivity. We are proud to serve as a gathering place for our community and launched a strategic plan January 2025 focused on arts, access, and atmosphere. We see the arts as a lens patrons can use to learn about themselves and connect with their local community. The artist in residence will lead workshops, host creative open office hours, and help guide the library in developing a framework for future creative collaborations. The Friends of the Two Harbors Public Library will commission a piece from the Artist to add to our library’s collection on the theme of “the library as a cornerstone.” The culminating event will be a community art show hosted at the Two Harbors Public Library through the month of May 2026. This project is sponsored through the generosity of the Two Harbors Area Fund.
Application deadline: 5pm Monday, July 28, 2025
Please include completed application and include two reference letters and three examples of your work.
Return applications via email to Madeline at madeline.jarvis@alslib.info; via mail to “Two Harbors Public Library ATTN Artist in Residence 320 Waterfront Drive Two Harbors, MN 55616,” or in person at the library’s front desk. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision by the second week of August.
Compensation: The artist will receive a $4,500 stipend to compensate for their time and expertise and $1,000 to purchase needed workshop supplies. The stipend will be paid over three payments throughout the duration of the residency.
Expectations for residency:
● The duration of the residency is early September 2025 through late May 2026.
● The Artist In Residence will offer a variety of opportunities for engagement for patrons of all ages and abilities:
o The Artist is required to lead at least four public workshops.
o The Artist is required to host three public drop-in open studio sessions, where patrons can learn from the Artist’s creative process.
o The Artist is required to design and coordinate at least two passive programs to ensure equity of access. This could include a take and make art project, guided exploration, or more.
o The Artist will work with library staff to schedule the opportunities throughout the duration of the residency.
● For non-commission pieces, the Artist will retain ownership of work done. Pieces created in collaborative workshops will be under the ownership of the individual creator.