The Terra Foundation Fellowships in American Art at the Smithsonian American Art Museum seek to foster a cross-cultural dialogue about the history of art of the United States up to 1980. They support work by scholars from abroad who are researching American art or by U.S. scholars who are investigating international contexts for American art. Fellowships are residential and support full-time independent and dissertation research.

Presentation

The Terra Foundation Fellowships in American Art at the Smithsonian American Art Museum seek to foster a cross-cultural dialogue about the history of art of the United States up to 1980. They support work by scholars from abroad who are researching American art or by U.S. scholars who are investigating international contexts for American art.

The Terra Foundation for American Art is dedicated to fostering exploration, understanding, and enjoyment of the visual arts of the United States for national and international audiences. Recognizing the importance of experiencing original works of art, the foundation provides opportunities for interaction and study, beginning with the presentation and growth of its own art collection in Chicago. To further cross-cultural dialogue on American art, the foundation supports and collaborates on innovative exhibitions, research, and educational programs. Implicit in such activities is the belief that art has the potential both to distinguish cultures and to unite them.

Fellowship stipend and term

The stipend for a one-year fellowship is $32,500 for predoctoral fellows or $47,500 for senior and postdoctoral fellows, plus research and travel allowances. The standard term of residency for fellowships is twelve months, but shorter terms will be considered; stipends are prorated for periods of less than twelve months. Fellowships are residential and support full-time independent and dissertation research.

Qualifications and Selection

Applications for the Terra Foundation Fellowships in American Art will be evaluated on the basis of the proposal’s merit and the candidate’s academic standing, scholarly qualifications, and experience. The project’s compatibility with the museum’s collections, facilities, staff, and programs will also be considered. Candidates must be proficient in reading and speaking English. A committee comprised of Smithsonian curators and historians will review the applications.

Application Procedures

Only one application is necessary for all Smithsonian American Art Museum fellowships; applicants will automatically be considered in all relevant award categories. Applicants are encouraged to provide a statement in their proposal that indicates how their research topic is particularly suited to the Terra awards.

The Smithsonian Institution’s Office of International Relations will assist with arranging J-1 exchange visas for fellowship recipients who require them.

December 1, 2014,

is the application deadline for fellowships that begin on or after June 1, 2015. For applications and general information visit AmericanArt.si.edu/fellowships or email AmericanArtFellowships@si.edu.

Applicants should apply to the general Smithsonian Fellowship Program, found under the Office of Fellowships in the online application system (SOLAA), and not under the Museum’s name. Applicants should propose a primary advisor/supervisor from the Smithsonian American Art Museum to be eligible for a fellowship at this unit.Only one application is necessary; applicants will automatically be considered for all relevant awards.

All applicants are encouraged to share their research proposals with potential Smithsonian advisors before submitting applications.

For research consultation:

• Emily Dana Shapiro

Telephone (202) 633-8335
Email ShapiroED[at]si.edu 

• Amelia Goerlitz

Telephone (202) 633-8353
Email GoerlitzA[at]si.edu