Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts: Omaha's International Artist Residency

The Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts in Omaha, Nebraska has supported artists since 1981, providing one of the most generous residency programs in the United States with substantial monthly stipends and comprehensive support.

What Bemis Center Offers

Standard Artist-in-Residence Program

For US-Based Artists:

• $1,250 monthly stipend
• $750 travel stipend
• Live/work studio space

For International Artists:

• $1,250 monthly stipend
• $1,500 travel stipend
• Live/work studio space

Sound Art + Experimental Music Residency

• $1,250 monthly stipend
• $750 travel stipend
• $2,500 materials budget
• Specialized facilities for sound work

Alumni Artist-in-Residence Program

For returning Bemis alumni:

• $350 weekly stipend
• $750 travel stipend
• $2,500 unrestricted materials stipend
• 4-6 week duration

Residency Sessions

Bemis offers three residency sessions annually:

• Spring: January - April
• Summer: May - August
• Fall: September - November

Each session lasts approximately 3 months.

Eligibility and Requirements

Who Can Apply

• Emerging to mid-career artists
• All nationalities welcome
• Working in contemporary art practices

Visa Information for International Artists

International artists are encouraged to apply for a J-1 short-term scholar visa through IA&A to receive monthly stipend payments. Without J-1 visa, payment restrictions may apply based on specific visa type.

The Bemis Experience

Studios

• Large live/work studios (1,200-3,000 sq ft)
• 24/7 access
• Individual climate control
• Loading dock access for large works

Location

Downtown Omaha offers:

• Affordable cost of living
• Growing contemporary art scene
• Central US location with easy travel
• Vibrant food and music culture

Program Support

• Curatorial guidance
• Professional development
• Exhibition opportunities
• Connection to Omaha art community

Application Tips

1. Persistence pays off - Artist Sean Fader famously applied 5 times before acceptance
2. Strong project proposal - Be specific about what you'll accomplish
3. Quality documentation - Professional images of your work matter
4. Fit with Bemis mission - Research past residents and exhibitions

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the Bemis Center website:

1. Create account at bemiscenter.org/apply
2. Complete application form
3. Upload portfolio (typically 10-20 images)
4. Submit artist statement and project proposal
5. Provide references

Timeline

• Applications typically open in spring for the following year
• Check website for current deadlines
• Notifications several months before residency start

Notable Alumni

Bemis Center has supported artists who have gone on to:

• Major museum exhibitions
• Whitney Biennial participation
• International recognition
• MacArthur Fellowships

Why Choose Bemis?

• Generous stipend - Among the highest in US residency programs
• Live/work format - No commute, full immersion
• Central location - Easy access to both coasts
• Supportive community - Strong local art scene engagement
• Affordable living - Stipend goes further in Omaha

How to Apply

1. Visit bemiscenter.org/apply
2. Review current guidelines and deadlines
3. Prepare required materials
4. Submit complete application

Related Resources

• Official Bemis Center Website
• Residency Overview
• Current Residents

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Last updated: December 2025. Always verify current details on the official Bemis Center website.