SWOCC Opens Applications for 2026–27 Guest Artist in Residence Program

Nine-month residency offers studio space, housing, and a monthly stipend for artists to engage with students and the local community.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:10pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of an art studio filled with blurred brushes, canvases, and other artistic tools and materials, all bathed in a warm, hazy glow of light, conveying the creative energy and community focus of the residency program.The Guest Artist in Residence program at Southwestern Oregon Community College provides a creative sanctuary for artists to develop their craft while engaging with students and the local community.Coos Bay Today

Southwestern Oregon Community College is now accepting applications for its 2026-2027 Guest Artist in Residence Program, which provides a nine-month opportunity for artists to develop their work while teaching classes and workshops for students and the local community. The selected artist will receive a $1,600 monthly stipend, on-campus housing, a dining plan, and a solo exhibition at the college's Eden Gallery.

Why it matters

The Guest Artist in Residence program aims to connect professional artists with students and the Coos Bay community, expanding access to the arts in the region. The program was a success in its first year, with full workshops and positive feedback from participants.

The details

The residency will take place at Southwestern's Coos Campus and the Coos Art Museum, providing the selected artist with studio space and facilities. In addition to the stipend and housing, the artist will be expected to teach at least two classes or workshops per academic term for Southwestern students and lead at least one workshop per term at the Coos Art Museum Studio. The role also involves collaborating with faculty, students, and community partners.

  • Applications are open until May 1, 2026.
  • Interviews for the residency will be scheduled for the week of May 11, 2026.
  • The residency will run from September 2026 through June 2027.

The players

Ali Mageehon

Vice President of Instruction and Student Services at Southwestern Oregon Community College.

Coos Art Museum

A community art museum located in Coos Bay, Oregon that will host the selected artist and provide studio space.

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What they’re saying

“The Guest Artist in Residence program creates an avenue for artists to focus on their work while engaging directly with students and the community.”

— Ali Mageehon, Vice President of Instruction and Student Services

What’s next

The selected artist for the 2026-2027 residency will be announced after the interviews in May 2026.

The takeaway

Southwestern Oregon Community College's Guest Artist in Residence Program offers a unique opportunity for artists to develop their work while sharing their expertise with students and the local Coos Bay community, furthering the college's mission to expand access to the arts.