NVAM Artist Fellowship

The NVAM Artist Fellowship recognizes an exceptional artist each year with a stipend ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 based on need, while fostering the next generation of artists who have served in the U.S. military through meaningful connections with the broader arts community and access to developmental resources. The program creates intentional space for artists to share their creative practice, facilitating a deeper understanding and more active dialogue between military and civilian communities.

How to apply

  • You can apply if…

    • You are a practicing artist who has served in the United States Armed Forces.

    • You want to be engaged with the broader arts community in practice and conversation.

    • You're at a stage in your career where community, leadership development, mentorship, and an exhibition will be impactful in your growth as an artist.

    • You are interested in the National Veterans Art Museum preserving one of your artworks in the museum's permanent collection.

  • Advisors & Mentors

    • NVAM Fellows are matched with artists and arts educators, both veteran and non-veteran, to guide your work, exhibition, and growth as a professional artist.

      Financial Assistance

    • Fellows will be granted $3,000 - $10,000 worth of resources based on need to develop a workshop and an exhibition that is core to their artistic practice.

      Solo Exhibition

    • The fellowship culminates in a public exhibition at the National Veterans Art Museum in Chicago where your work is on display with a community of veterans, artists, and local leaders. Fellows will share body of work and artistic practice in a dialogue centered on understanding.

  • We will be accepting applications for the 2027 NVAM Artist Fellowship on November 1, 2025.

    Applications close on April 1, 2026 at 11:59 CST.

  • For further questions regarding your application, write to info@nvam.org

Applications for the 2027 NVAM Artist Fellowship close on April 1, 2026 at 11:59 pm CT

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

MEET OUR NVAM ARTIST FELLOWS

  • A man in a light blue button-up shirt and khaki pants standing with his hands clasped in front of him, in front of an abstract colorful painting.

    Steven Luu

    United States Air Force, 1995-2016

    From: Washington, D.C.

    2024 NVAM Artist Fellow

  • A smiling woman with short brown hair wearing a colorful neck scarf and a dark burgundy top, standing in a kitchen with shelves and appliances in the background.

    Jenn Hassin

    United States Air Force, 2006-2009

    From: Austin, Texas

    2025 NVAM Artist Fellow

  • A man with curly dark hair and a serious expression, wearing a red sweater over a white shirt, outdoors with a blurred background.

    Gregory Rick

    United States Army, 2004-2007

    From: Clovis, California

    2026 NVAM Artist Fellow

Text saying 'Illinois Arts Council' with 'Illinois' and 'Council' in black and 'Arts' in green.
Logo of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events with a blue square, a red star, and black text. 
The National Veterans Art Museum Fellowship program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council and Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.