The GA NMWA Distinguished Fellowship

In our ongoing commitment to supporting women artists, GA NMWA has partnered with the Hambidge Creative Residency Program to offer a Distinguished Fellowship for a woman artist living in Georgia. This merit-based award includes a stipend and a two-week summer residency at the Hambidge Center in the beautiful and serene North Georgia mountains.

Applications from female-identifying visual artists who have never been in residence at Hambidge are encouraged. The annual deadline for this summer residency is January 15th. Artists will have the opportunity to select the Georgia Committee of NMWA Distinguished Fellowship within the general application.

GA NMWA is proud to fund this invaluable residency, however the fellowship recipient is selected by Hambidge.

Past Recipients

“Hambidge came at a time of transition in my life and practice. I had recently graduated from an MFA program and I was figuring out how to make work on new terms - a new work schedule, a new studio, and no access to the facilities I was previously using to make my work. I came to Hambidge with the goal of quieting the input from outside sources, and focusing on making work with no judgement and no incentive to show it to anyone. It was a challenge at first, but the quiet of the environment, along with the feeling of being far away from “real” life, allowed me to recenter. I allowed myself to rest when I felt the need and work when I felt the need. Having a place to work without expectations was such a gift to my practice for those two weeks. I followed my curiosity, and what came of it was unexpected and exciting. I am grateful beyond words to have spent two weeks at Hambidge, and to GA NMWA for making it happen.” - Elisa Dore

“I arrived at Hambidge after a professionally demanding period with three solos shows in three years. Somewhat worn from the experience, I was hoping for a period of reflection and
refreshment. My residency was a revelation in this respect. The profound beauty of the natural environment of Hambidge was incredibly nurturing. Delightful experiences included seeing a huge heron in the creek; watching a dragonfly laying her eggs in the sand; and catching a glimpse of a black bear through the foliage as it breakfasted by the mowed path. Simply opening the door and smelling the rich scent of the biodiversity of the area was inspiring every morning. Sharing delicious, nourishing meals with collegial fellows at the end of the day was another delight. Most importantly, I rediscovered a sense of play in the studio. I took hikes every day at Hambidge, which really felt like metaphors for the studio, in which one follows promising paths, encounters and overcomes obstacles, and is rewarded by beauty. I left Hambidge with a portfolio of vibrant ideas and fertile pathways to explore.”
- Imi Hwangbo