OPEN CALL: Visiting Artist Residency Supported by the University of Michigan Arts Initiative

With support from the University of Michigan Arts Initiative, Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning’s Visualization Laboratory (TVLab) is seeking artists working with extended reality (XR) technology. This opportunity combines artistic practice, expansive research methods, and an openness to experiment and explore possibilities within the context of an R1 Research University. One selected artist will receive a 30,000 USD stipend, professional development support, and the opportunity to work closely with Taubman College faculty and students.

In this inaugural year, the program invites proposals exploring game development, virtual event production, mixed reality fabrication, augmented reality interventions, among other zones of inquiry in extended reality. We particularly welcome research agendas that capture the political and cultural complexities of these evolving visualization technologies and are imbued with an interest in software development.

About the U-M Arts Initiative
The University of Michigan Arts Initiative is piloting the visiting artist program to integrate the creative vision and dynamic thinking of artists across the university programs and processes. Through the Visiting Artist Integration Project (VAIP) the Arts Initiative will fund a stipend, travel, and supplies for an artist to visit and work with a U-M school, college, or unit. In VAIP’s inaugural year, the Arts Initiative has identified Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning as a foundational proving ground. A recognized leader in experimental modes of spatial visualization, Taubman College is an ideal laboratory to explore ways that integrated creative practice can enhance student experience and learning, while also expanding the boundaries of digital arts. This pilot visit is led by Anya Sirota, Associate Associate Dean for Academic Initiatives, Associate Professor of Architecture at Taubman college, and will coincide with the launch of the Taubman Visualization Lab (TVLab).

Research residency goals
–Grow the artist’s interests which may include, but not be limited to: artistic research; skill development, interdisciplinary collaboration, capacity building, institutional critique, activism.
–Engage the Taubman College community in matters pertaining to the future of visualization in the arts and public discourse.
–Influence the TVLab’s approach to supporting faculty, students and artists in the future.

In addition to a 30,000 USD stipend, the artist will receive
–5,000 USD research budget to support student assistants and incidental expenses.
–Access to a dedicated studio space in the TVLab, which is equipped with a range of XR technologies including AR & VR (HTC Vive, Magic Leap, Hololens etc. ), 3D Scanning and spatial mapping equipment (Kinect, LiDAR, photogrammetry) and  computational devices (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, Intel Galileo). The lab also offers resources for virtual production and capture technology including video cameras, 360 cameras, drones, and projectors. The table-mounted robotic arm combines immersive  technology with analog fabrication. A modest project budget is available for technology needs that arise during the fellowship.
–Artist-related professional development.
–Opportunities to share work with Taubman College and broader University of Michigan audiences.

​Application deadline: November 15, 2022. For more information, and to apply, visit here.