Art Belongs Here
In partnership with the We ❤️SF community, this new artist grant uplifts bold, visionary work about life in the Bay Area—what it is, and what it could become. At a time when it’s increasingly difficult for artists to remain rooted here, this initiative invests in those shaping the region’s cultural future, with the hope that they not only stay—but thrive. The intention for starting this grant is rooted in care: for the city itself, for the humans that call it home, and for the role art plays in everyday life. We’re seeking work that both imagines, and reimagines, the Bay with pride, joy, and expansive creative possibility.
This project is a collaboration between Shack15 and We ❤️SF, with support from Bay Art Agenda.
SHACK15 Artist Residency
Residency Duration: Fall 2025
Award Announcement: September 20th at the Gala
Public Exhibition: SF Art Week 2026
Award Includes: Financial support, visibility at SHACK15, and a platform to activate your work with a public audience
Theme:Through the Gates of Paradise: A Celebration of
Selected artists will receive funding, support, and community to incubate and present new work, culminating in a public exhibition during SF Art Week 2026.
Key Dates + Who Should Apply
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must:
Live in one of the designated Bay Area zip codes (see list)
Have a coherent body of work created in the last 2 years
Have exhibited, published, screened or performed work in the past 2 years
Submit a CV and a combined 1-page bio/artist statement
Note: Recipients will be issued a 1099 and funds must be used for artistic development.
Curated With Care
Applications will be reviewed in two rounds:
Initial Review: Led by esteemed art critic Andrew Berardini
Final Selection: Conducted by a panel of 1–3 curators
All jurors will be fairly compensated — because thoughtful artistic evaluation deserves care and respect.
Admin and artist communications will be managed by Alicia Hougey, BAA’s trusted grant processor.