The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Artist in Residence Program invites artists of all disciplines and media to immerse themselves in one of the world’s most iconic long-distance trails, the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). Through their creative work, the selected artist will help celebrate, interpret, and share the A.T.’s natural beauty, history, and communities.
Inspiration on the Appalachian Trail
Stretching more than 2,190 miles through 14 states, the Appalachian Trail has inspired generations of hikers, volunteers, conservationists, and artists.
Through this opportunity, the ATC Artist in Residence will have the opportunity to experience the Trail firsthand and translate their experiences into creative work that will help others appreciate and connect to the A.T. in new and meaningful ways.
Whether you’re a painter, writer, photographer, filmmaker, musician, or explore creativity through another medium, we welcome your vision and proposal.
Applications open November 2, 2026.
What the Residency Includes
The artist will hold the title of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Artist in Residence for 2027. During this time, the artist will collaborate with the ATC on public programs, retail products, and editorial content.
Support includes:
- Official designation as the ATC Artist in Residence.
- A two- to four-week residency at Monson Arts in Monson, Maine.
- Stipend for approved transportation and lodging for on-Trail events at visitor centers and other locations.
- Promotion of completed work through ATC channels.
- Work with the ATC on exclusive retail items.
Artists are encouraged to spend time hiking and exploring sections of the Appalachian Trail as part of their residency. The final structure will be determined by the artist’s proposal and goals. This may look like a full thru-hike, a section hike, or a location-based stay near the Trail.
Past Artist in Residency
During her 2025 thru-hike as ATC Artist in Residence, Mallory Weston gathered inspiration through photography, writing, and daily observation. Her daily hiking routine and experiences of the Trail’s landscapes and ecosystems informed her practice in metalsmithing, jewelry, and sculpture.
Meet Mallory
Before hitting the Trail, Mallory sat down with ATC staff to talk inspiration, intentions, and her creative process.
Read the Interview
Collaboration: Centennial Lapel Pin
A custom product Mallory designed in partnership with the ATC is now available in the ATC Trail Store.
View the PinCompleted Works & Field Notes
See Mallory’s finished pieces inspired by the Trail, alongside the places and moments that informed her practice.
View Gallery
Application Details
We’re seeking artists who:
- Demonstrate a strong creative portfolio in their chosen medium(s).
- Are inspired by nature, conservation, and the outdoors.
- Enjoy solitude, hiking, or exploring rural landscapes.
- Are excited to engage with local communities and share their process/art with the public.
- Are comfortable working independently and managing a self-directed project.
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Alignment with the ATC’s mission and values.
- Strength and quality of portfolio.
- Feasibility of proposed project.
- Ability and motivation to work independently.
- Potential for meaningful public engagement via visitor center programs, exhibitions, storytelling, etc.
Applications will be reviewed by the ATC’s Artist in Residence Committee.
- Applications Open: November 2, 2026
- Deadline to Apply: January 3, 2027
- Selected Artist Announced: Februrary 2027
- Residencies Begin: March–December 2027
The Appalachian Trail includes everything from accessible visitor centers and paved paths to remote backcountry terrain. Artists don’t need prior thru-hiking experience, and there’s no expectation to hike the entire Trail or access remote sections to take part in the residency, though it is certainly welcome.
We welcome artists at a range of experience levels and physical abilities, especially those who are comfortable spending time outdoors, navigating rural environments, and working independently. We encourage each applicant to propose a residency experience that aligns with their own needs and practice.
The residency includes limited travel stipend for select program-related activities. Because of the program structure, priority consideration may be given to artists based in the eastern United States or to those able to independently support a portion of their travel and accommodations during the residency.