The Northern Colorado Fireshed Collaborative (NCFC), in partnership with the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests, is opening applications for its inaugural 2026 Artist in Residence (AiR) Program. The program invites artists to explore and interpret the landscapes, ecosystems, and communities shaped by fire in Northern Colorado. Art can communicate these ideas in meaningful ways and help people connect more deeply with the forests around them and heal their relationship with fire.
Four selected artists will participate in a one-week residency at the Red Feather Assistant Ranger Cabin during July and August while exploring the surrounding landscapes of the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests and creating new artwork inspired by the experience. Each selected artist will receive a $1,000 stipend to support their participation in the residency.
Only visual artists will be considered for this residency.
At the completion of their residency, each artist will submit a fully furnished piece of work representative of their stay in the Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests to have on display throughout the Fireshed for 1 year (art on loan.)
Artists will hold their own rights to each original piece of work and may sell their work after the 1 year art on loan period. The NoCo Fireshed requests that 5 prints be made for future Artist in Residence Promotion, future displays, and record keeping. Any other uses of prints or distribution will be communicated with the artist.
Applications for the 2026 NoCo Fireshed Artist in Residence Program are open April 6 through May 4, 2026.
Questions can be sent to bridgette.windell@emberalliance.org