Gallery Fellow: Naps, Nebulas, and Neurons

Description:

Gallery Fellowship Description

Artist-in-Residence Daryl Myntia Daniels will guide Gallery Fellows in exploring how personal objects and cultural tools can become extensions of self-expression through mark-making.

Rooted in Daniels’ signature use of the Afro pick as both a drawing tool and cultural symbol, Fellows will learn to translate small, hand-drawn marks into layered prints and digital compositions. They will experiment with scanning, printmaking, and digital art techniques to uncover how texture, rhythm, and repetition can reveal hidden surfaces and unseen energy.

Gallery Fellows will reflect on what is personal to them—objects, memories, or gestures—and reimagine those elements as creative tools. By merging analog and digital processes, the final exhibition will celebrate individuality, craftsmanship, and collective healing.

Key Learning Goals

• Artists will explore mark-making as a personal language, using tools and
  gestures that reflect their individual identity and energy.
• Artists will gain technical skills in printmaking, scanning, and digital layering to
  transform small hand-made marks into larger compositions.
• Artists will experiment with unconventional materials and processes to uncover
  hidden surfaces and textures.
• Artists will reflect on the connection between mind, material, and emotion,
  discovering how rhythm and repetition convey frequency and feeling.
• By the end of the program, artists will create a cohesive body of work that
  expresses their personal radiance and understanding of mark-making as a
  pathway to healing and connection.

ArtWorks' Your Name Here Gallery Fellowship Program is a transformative, free educational experience designed for young artists ages 16-24 to expand their creative horizons through hands-on mentorship with accomplished Artists-in-Residence. Through personalized guidance, professional development, and collaborative opportunities, the program fosters artistic growth in an inclusive and supportive environment. Participants gain valuable gallery experience, experiment with new techniques, and showcase their work in a group exhibition with the opportunity to sell their pieces, retaining 75% of any sales. This unique fellowship empowers emerging artists to connect with the community and step confidently into the professional art world.

Gallery Fellowship Requirements

• Gallery Fellows must be 16 - 24 years old.
• Gallery Fellows must commit to attending all scheduled studio sessions and professional development sessions.
• Gallery Fellows must participate in the installation and curation of the group exhibition.
• Gallery Fellows must participate in the Gallery Opening.
• Gallery Fellows must participate in the deinstallation and closing of the group exhibition.

Gallery Fellowship Schedule

Mandatory Studio Sessions: May 11 – July 3, 2026 (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: 5-7pm)

Mandatory Installation & PD Sessions: July 20 – July 30, 2026

Exhibition Duration: July 31 – September 9, 2026 | 6 weeks

Mandatory Opening: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 5-7pm

Mandatory De-Install: Thursday, September 10, 2026 | 4-7pm

Application Requirements

The application deadline is April 13 by 9am.

• You must include 3-5 portfolio samples that show your distinct style and range as an artist.
  • Combine all images into one PDF document no larger than 4MB.
  • Ensure pieces are oriented correctly.
  • Each piece should include title, year, artist name, measurements, and brief description.
  • Upload using the additional materials button.
• If you have issues with uploading through the additional materials button, please email the PDF of your portfolio samples to Grace Thanasiu at [email protected]. Your portfolio is the most important element of your application!
• Artist websites are also welcome and may be used in lieu of a PDF portfolio, if they include at least 3-5 pieces and indicate title, year, artist name, measurements, and brief description.