Taft extends Duncanson Artist-in-Residence application period

The Taft Museum of Art has extended the application deadline for its 2026 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence Program to Jan. 31.

The Robert S. Duncanson Society celebrates the achievements of contemporary Black artists annually through its unique residency program. It focuses on a different artistic medium each year.

For 2026, the downtown Cincinnati museum seeks a painter with teaching experience and a social justice commitment. The ideal candidate will be both an outstanding painter and a dynamic educator, comfortable working with diverse audiences ranging from students, families and adults of all ages.

Taft opens the residency to artists from across the United States.

The selected artist, who will receive a $10,000 honorarium, will host the Cincinnati community for two weeks in spring 2026, sharing their vision through public events, including lectures, workshops, gallery talks, school visits, and other signature events.

The Robert S. Ducanson artist-in-residence program honors the relationship between Black American painter Robert S. Duncanson and Cincinnati patron Nicholas Longworth, the mansion’s original owner, which the Taft Museum now occupies. The goal is to deepen awareness of Black art and artists, inspiring future generations.

Nikki Giovanni, filmmaker William Greaves, playwright/screenwriter Keith Josef Adkins, violist Nokuthula Ngwenyama and actor/playwright Nikkole Salter. Celebrated Nigerian-born, New Orleans-based chef Tunde Wey held the position this year.

The Taft team is also searching for its 2025 Duncanson Artist-in-Residence in the hip-hop artist discipline.