The Clark Art Institute Fellowship 2026-27 in USA (Fully Funded)

The Clark Art Institute Fellowship is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity for scholars, curators, critics, and artists to conduct independent research in the history, theory, and interpretation of visual culture. Hosted at the Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Massachusetts, USA, the fellowship supports projects that engage with art history and related disciplines. Fellows benefit from access to the Clark's extensive resources, including its renowned library and art collections.

Eligibility

• Open to scholars worldwide, including academics, curators, critics, and independent researchers.
• Applicants must hold a PhD or possess equivalent professional experience.
• Fellowships are available for various durations, ranging from 1 to 10 months.
• Ideal for those seeking to pursue independent research projects outside of their professional obligations.
• Candidates may be employed full- or part-time, or work as independent scholars, curators, and/or critics.
• Strong writing skills.
• Strong research skills, including:
  • Experience conducting independent empirical research
  • Experience with qualitative research methods, such as interviews and qualitative analysis
  • Preferably, experience with quantitative research methods as well

Program Dates & Location

• Application Deadline: October 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
• Duration: July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027.
• Location: Clark Art Institute, Williamstown, Massachusetts, USA.

Program Benefits

• Stipend: Up to $30,000 per semester, based on need and earnings.
• Travel Reimbursement: Coverage for travel expenses to and from the Clark, including for one family member.
• Accommodation: Fellows are provided with furnished apartments in the Scholars' Residence, located across from the Clark campus.
• Access to Resources: Private office space in the Manton Research Center, access to the Clark's art collections, and extended hours at the library.

Research Areas

• Projects should relate to the visual arts, encompassing history, theory, practice, or interpretation.
• The Clark encourages proposals that deepen, transform, or challenge current methodologies in art history and related fields.
• Special fellowships are available for specific research interests, such as Caribbean Art and Its Diasporas.

Required Documents

• Online Application Form: Complete the application form through the Clark's application portal
  • Register to set up a new account first
• Project Abstract: A brief description of your project (500 characters max)
• Project Description: A detailed explanation of your project (750 words max)
• Schedule Outline: Proposed timeline for the work to be completed during the residency period (250 words)
• Curriculum Vitae: A PDF document (maximum 3 double-spaced pages).
• Recommendation Letters: Two letters of recommendation, submitted directly to research@clarkart.edu

Application Process

1. Prepare Application Materials: Gather your CV, project abstract, project description, schedule outline, and recommendation letters.
2. Complete Online Application: Fill out the application form on the Clark's application portal.
3. Submit Recommendation Letters: Ensure your referees send their letters directly to research@clarkart.edu.
4. Submit Application: Submit all materials by the application deadline.
5. Notification: Applicants will be notified of decisions by the end of March following the application cycle

For more information, please visit the official website of the Clark Fellowship.