Introducing SFAI’s 2026 Program Vision
When I joined the Santa Fe Art Institute in January of this year, I began a months-long journey to learn directly from the artists, partners, neighbors, and supporters who shape this community. Through conversations and gatherings across the city, a clear theme emerged. Many of you hold great admiration for SFAI’s international residency and our long history of social practice–driven programming. At the same time, you expressed a desire for a deeper connection between SFAI and the broader Santa Fe community.
We heard you.
Your input has shaped a renewed vision for SFAI that strengthens our local ties and continues our global engagement. In 2026, we’ll launch programs focused on artist support, broader accessibility, and public events for creative collaboration.
With this renewed direction, here’s what to expect in the coming years.
Strengthening Local Artist Support and Creative Career Pathways
Santa Fe’s creative community has always been at the heart of SFAI’s identity. In 2026, we are deepening this investment through expanded programs designed to meet the needs of artists working and living in our region.
Key offerings include:
- Community Critique Circles that provide facilitated peer feedback and professional guidance
- Quarterly networking events that build relationships across disciplines and sectors
- Career development workshops in areas such as business literacy, project planning, portfolio development, and artist marketing
- Access to virtual and hybrid resources for artists balancing creative work with caregiving, employment, or mobility limitations
These changes show our commitment to a more connected ecosystem for Santa Fe artists.
Expanding Accessible, Innovative Fellowship Models
In 2026, SFAI will temporarily pause its traditional onsite residencies and introduce a suite of distinct fellowship program pilots. These new fellowships prioritize accessibility, draw on artists’ lived experiences, and offer long-term resources. Unlike residencies based in Santa Fe, these fellowships allow artists to remain embedded within their own communities while participating in structured peer learning and receiving financial and project support.
Spinal Cord Artist Residency (SCAR) Fellowship
The SCAR Fellowship is a two-year initiative created by and for artists with spinal cord injuries, funded by the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation. It includes a $2,500 stipend, travel expenses, personal care and art assistant support, monthly virtual cohort meetings, exhibition opportunities, and leadership development opportunities.
SCAR demonstrates how artist-led program design can reshape the field and offers a replicable framework for institutions seeking to make their programs more accessible.
International Thematic Fellowship
For 2026, SFAI is temporarily reimagining its renowned International Thematic Residency as a yearlong fellowship. The program supports artists in creating community-based projects that address urgent social, cultural, and environmental issues.
Fellows will receive:
- a $10,000 stipend
- structured virtual cohort gatherings
- individualized project support
- documentation and publication assistance
- peer learning opportunities and professional development support
This model allows artists to cultivate work within their own communities while remaining connected to a global network.
Transatlantic Rising Stars Project (TRSP)
2026 marks the inaugural year of a three-year partnership among the European Union, the Institute of American Indian Arts, and SFAI through the Transatlantic Rising Stars Project (TRSP). This new fellowship connects European artists with peers, cultural leaders, and communities in the United States to foster international exchange.
The program includes an eight-week fellowship in Santa Fe, a stipend, travel support, support from an IAIA Alum co-fellow, and a Washington D.C.-based exhibition.
TRSP strengthens artistic exchange and broadens Santa Fe’s connection to global creative communities.
Reactivating Public Programming and Community Engagement
In 2026, public programs at SFAI will invite shared learning, hands-on participation, and community dialogue. These programs emphasize co-creation rather than presentation and draw on the strengths of our visiting and local artists.
Offerings will include:
- artist-led community workshops
- public conversations grounded in thematic inquiry
- collaborative projects developed with neighborhood and community partners
- cross-institutional programming through MADA and Midtown collaborators
Join us in these initiatives to create, collaborate, and build community—your participation matters.
The Midtown Art and Design Alliance
We’re also continuing the crucial work of developing the Midtown creative campus through the Midtown Art and Design Alliance (MADA), a key initiative aimed at revitalizing Midtown through partnerships and inclusive cultural projects. MADA aims to create an equitable and accessible creative district in Santa Fe.
Looking Ahead
SFAI’s next phase is shaped by community input and a belief in the power of art. Our 2026 programs build on our history, expanding support for artists and communities in new ways. Stay tuned for updates and get ready to participate. Your support and presence can shape SFAI’s next chapter.
With appreciation,
Toccarra Thomas
Executive Director
Santa Fe Art Institute
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