Call for artists
Meridian International Center, a nonprofit based in Washington, DC, is currently accepting applications for a fine arts exchange program funded by the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. One American artist will be selected to travel abroad to Turkmenistan in April 2020 for two weeks to:
• Have his/her solo works displayed in an exhibition in Turkmenistan
• Lead a plein air painting session in the Kopetdag mountains and assist the U.S. Embassy with selecting 10-20 local artists as participants
• Give workshops/lectures for students of the Fine Arts Academy and the general public
• Participate in a group exhibition with works from the plein air session as a capstone for the program
The selected artist will receive a $250/day honorarium. Travel (flights, baggage fees, visa expenses, travel insurance), lodging, and per diem (meals and incidentals) will be provided to the artist for the duration of the program.
Eligibility
• Be a U.S. citizen at least 21 years of age
• In possession of or able to obtain a U.S. passport with an expiration date no sooner than November 2020
• Able to commit to traveling to Turkmenistan for 2 weeks
Selection Criteria
• Be an expert/advanced landscape realism painter
• Teaching ability/experience and communication skills
• Be knowledgeable and experienced in the art market
• Be able to bring a small collection of your works for display in Turkmenistan
• International experience preferred
• Be flexible in meeting local sensitivities and limitations
• Potential to thrive as a cultural diplomat and to use art to promote cultural exchange
Application Requirements
• 1-2 page cover letter explaining your suitability for the program and relevant experience
• Résumé
• 5-10 work samples
Submission Information
Applications are due by email to Athena Hsieh, Cultural Programs Officer, at ahsieh@meridian.org. If selected to participate in this program, you will be notified by the end of January.
