Touchstone Foundation Emerging Artist Fellowship

FELLOWSHIP OVERVIEW

The Fellowship provides a two-year artist membership at Touchstone Gallery in downtown DC. Selected Fellows will be guaranteed participation in over a dozen group exhibitions, receive mentorship from established artists, presence on the Touchstone Gallery and Touchstone Foundation for the Arts websites, and a solo exhibition at the end of the two-year term. Since 2014, Fellowships have been awarded to artists and are based on artistic merit.

ELIGIBILITY

We encourage visual artists working in all disciplines to apply. Artists are eligible to apply if they have not been exclusively represented by a commercial gallery in the previous 10 years, can commit to a 2 year Fellowship term, and can fulfill the responsibilities and requirements.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applications will open again in April 2026. Submissions will be reviewed by the Touchstone Foundation for the Arts Board of Directors.  Semi-finalists will be asked to bring physical artwork for in-person review, and finalists will interview with the TFA Board. Touchstone Gallery Artists will complete a final review and select from the finalists.

Benefits:

• Full Artist Membership for the duration of the fellowship.

• A month-long solo show exhibition at Touchstone Gallery at the conclusion of the fellowship and up to $1000 to cover show materials and expenses.

• Inclusion of at least one artwork in monthly group shows (artwork may not be repeatedly shown within a one year period) plus bin space for up to 5 additional unframed pieces.

• Opportunity to participate in other exhibition opportunities arranged by the Gallery

• Representation on Gallery’s website, online store, and social media pages as applicable. 

• After the duration of the Fellowship, fellows may choose to continue Gallery membership in a category of their choice.

Responsibilities:

• Work sold by Touchstone Gallery is subject to a 40% commission (60% artist/40% gallery) and a 25% commission on work sold due to Gallery referral.

• One day of gallery staffing per month

• Active participation in Gallery volunteer opportunities

• Attendance at six Gallery membership meetings per year