ARTIST RESIDENCIES

For the past 10 years, Akron Soul Train has provided artists with the time, resources, and connections to develop ambitious new work. Since launching in 2016, the residency program has welcomed more than 100 visual, literary, performing, and multidisciplinary artists, fostering innovation and strengthening Greater Akron’s cultural landscape. Each residency is shaped around the artist’s needs and proposed project. Rather than following a fixed schedule, artists collaborate with AST to establish a flexible timeline for research, experimentation, development, and public presentation within the designated residency year.

A hallmark of the residency is the opportunity to engage the community through a public program. Working with AST staff, artists design an experience that complements their practice—whether a workshop, artist talk, performance, reading, demonstration, or collaboration. These programs encourage dialogue, learning, and exchange while offering artists new ways to share their work.

Every residency culminates in a public presentation, such as an exhibition, performance, reading, publication, screening, or other creative outcome. Through regional cultural partnerships, Akron Soul Train helps artists share their work, reach new audiences, and contribute to the vitality of Northeast Ohio.

Throughout the year, additional programs and collaborations may be offered to further support artists’ creative practice and deepen community connections. Follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest residency announcements, exhibitions, performances, and public programs.