Artists and technologists interested in applying for the 2025 Public Art Futures Lab Artist-in-Residence Program are invited to explore two exciting programs: the ATL DTN Residencies and the MARTA Artbound Residency. Each program offers unique prompts that encourage innovative exploration at the intersection of art and technology.
Applicants may apply for one or both residency programs; however, each application must be tailored specifically to the chosen Residency Brief and submitted separately. Be sure to directly address how your proposed project aligns with the goals and prompts outlined in the Residency Briefs to maximize your opportunity for selection.
Atlanta Downtown Residency
Background
Atlanta Downtown works to create a safe, clean, and vibrant district. By driving economic growth, improving public spaces, and fostering cultural and social engagement, we promote a thriving and inclusive urban environment. Atlanta Downtown is a partnership between Central Atlanta Progress and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District.
The Opportunity
Atlanta Downtown (ATL DTN) invites artists who are passionate about exploring cutting-edge technologies and engaging with the rich cultural tapestry of Downtown. This residency will provide artists with the resources and platform to create innovative and engaging works that transform the urban landscape of Downtown. The goal of the residency is to create a more vibrant and engaging urban environment that reflects the unique identity of our community. As a culminating experience, residents will have the opportunity to showcase their work on the large-scale digital signs throughout Downtown Atlanta.
Challenges
Downtown is a dynamic urban environment rich in history, culture, and community. However, its public spaces don't always reflect this vibrancy or engage residents and visitors in meaningful ways. This residency seeks to explore how tech-enabled public art can transform these spaces, creating experiences that are engaging, thought-provoking, and reflective of the community's unique identity.
Prompt
Artists are invited to propose projects that re-imagine public space in Downtown Atlanta through art and technology. Specifically, artists are prompted to:
1. Explore how technology (e.g. spatial computing, XR, interactive soundscapes, light sculptures, or community-driven data visualizations) can enhance public space and create engaging experiences.
2. Think about the unique character of Downtown Atlanta – its streets, buildings, and the people who bring it to life. How can you involve the community in the creation or experience of your artwork?
3. Activate and transform public space within Downtown Atlanta into a more vibrant and engaging environment.
MARTA Artbound Residency
Background
MARTA Artbound is always looking to highlight new mediums that can be used to engage MARTA’s ridership with art and artists. We offer visual arts and performances, and now aim to highlight literary art while still sticking to Artbound’s dedicated goal of helping our patrons enjoy the ride. Later this year, Artbound plans to partner with local organization LostintheLetters for a project that invites customers to express themselves in writing. The Artbound Public Art Futures Lab Resident will utilize digital animation to bring the LostintheLetters creative writing entries to life in unique and fun interactions that can be shared on various outlets including but not limited to, our social media and/or website.
About the MARTA Artbound and LostintheLetters Collaboration
Through a creative writing campaign using QR codes in stations, bus stops, and streetcar stops, MARTA patrons will be able to respond to a variety of writing prompts and opt to have them shared on the LostintheLetters website so others can view their work.
Challenges
MARTA Artbound offers visual arts and performances, and now aims to highlight literary art in a way that can engage MARTA patrons while still sticking to Artbound’s dedicated goal of helping you enjoy the ride.
Prompt
Utilize digital animation to bring the LostintheLetters creative writing entries to life in unique and fun videos that will be shared throughout the run of the series.
The Artist-in-Residence may also be responsible for uploading entries and custom visuals on the LostintheLetters website, so basic website knowledge will be helpful.
Create innovative ways to engage with First Friday event visitors at the Public Art Futures Lab, that relate to MARTA Artbound, LostintheLetters, and creative writing.