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Introducing the Arts in the Valley Artist-in-Residence Program

Connecting Artists, Educators, and Students Across the Blackstone Valley


Child in a white shirt observes vibrant artwork at a school art exhibit. Grey display panels line the gymnasium floor, with people in the background.

As we celebrate the 20th year of Arts in the Valley, the Blackstone Valley Education Foundation is proud to launch a bold new chapter in the initiative’s evolution: the Artist-in-Residence Program, debuting in 2026. This residency is designed to deepen the connection between creative professionals and K–12 education by embedding working artists directly into schools, classrooms, and youth-serving spaces across our member districts.


About the Program

The Artist-in-Residence initiative is built around one clear goal: to bring authentic, hands-on creative experiences to students by partnering educators with local artists. Residencies will be short-term, high-impact collaborations designed to integrate art into the classroom, build student confidence, and elevate the role of creativity in workforce readiness.


Residencies will run in Spring 2026 and culminate in a public showcase at the 2026 Arts in the Valley exhibition—Massachusetts’ largest K–12 art show. Participating educators and artists will co-design a project or unit, co-facilitate learning experiences, and help students produce meaningful, expressive work.


Who We’re Recruiting

We’re currently seeking two groups to participate in the inaugural residency cohort:


K–12 Educators

If you’re an arts educator in one of BVEF’s partner districts and want to collaborate with a local artist, we want to hear from you. We’ll work with you to shape a residency that fits your teaching goals.


Local Artists and Creatives

We’re calling on artists across the Blackstone Valley to apply for a residency. This is an opportunity to share your practice with students, build community connections, and help shape the future of arts in education.


What’s Provided

  • A small stipend for participating artists and teachers

  • Project support and coordination from BVEF

  • Opportunities to be featured at AIV 2026 and in BVEF promotional campaigns

  • A chance to work directly with students/educators in a meaningful, lasting way


Help Us Celebrate 20 Years by Building What’s Next

Since its founding in 2006, Arts in the Valley has connected thousands of students and educators through creative expression and public celebration of K–12 art. In this 20th anniversary year, we’re expanding that mission by inviting local artists to take an active role in shaping the next generation of creativity in our region.


If you're an educator, artist, community partner, or supporter of the arts, we invite you to share this opportunity and encourage someone to apply.


Let’s make the 20th year of Arts in the Valley our most impactful yet.

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