Forge Project opens applications for 2026 Indigenous fellowships

Forge Project has announced an open call for its 2026 funded fellowship program, inviting Indigenous artists, scholars, organizers, cultural workers, researchers, and educators to apply for the prestigious annual cohort. The application period closes Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., with selected Fellows to be announced in late spring.

The fellowship program is known for supporting a wide range of cultural practices, participatory research, and organizing models rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems. Each year, the initiative highlights both the histories and futures of Native communities. Two of the fellowships are reserved for enrolled tribal members and First- and Second-Line Descendants of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, honoring the original stewards of the land where Forge Project operates and encouraging site-specific, relational work.

Each Fellow receives $25,000 to support their practice, along with access to Forge Project’s buildings, libraries, and lending collection of works by living Indigenous artists. Fellows may also participate in residencies of up to three weeks on-site.

The Forge Project campus features two architecturally distinct structures designed by Ai Weiwei in collaboration with HHF Architects. The main building—composed of four equal-sized boxes—hosts public programs, including talks and presentations led by Fellows. Adjacent to it sits a Y-shaped building, whose upper floor includes a circular skylight that illuminates a central gallery and provides flexible living and studio space for residents.

Throughout their residency, Fellows are supported by Forge Project staff, including Director of Indigenous Programs and Relationality Sarah Biscarra Dilley (yak titʸutitʸu yak tiłhini [Northern Chumash]) and Public & Relational Programs Coordinator Monica Sekaquaptewa (Diné & Hopi). Fellows receive individualized mentorship, opportunities to develop public programming, and support in forging new connections both locally and internationally. Their work is shared with audiences on-site and across Forge Project’s social media platforms.

For more information or to apply, prospective applicants can visit Forge Project’s online application portal before the February deadline.