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Terra Foundation for American Art Fellowships
at the Smithsonian American Art Museum
2008–09

Terra Foundation for American Art Fellowships at the Smithsonian American Art Museum seek to foster a cross-cultural dialogue about the history of art of the United States. They support work by scholars from abroad who are researching American art or by U.S. scholars, especially those who are investigating international contexts for American art. Fellowships are residential and support full-time independent and dissertation research. Postdoctoral and senior Terra fellows are eligible for a substantial stipend supplement to assist with research, relocation, and housing costs.

Qualifications and Selection

Applications for Terra Foundation for American Art Fellowships will be evaluated on the basis of the proposal's merit and the candidate's academic standing, scholarly qualifications, and experience. Any topic related to the art and visual culture of the United States is eligible, but preference will be given to scholars from abroad or U.S. scholars who are investigating international contexts for American art up to 1980. The project's compatibility with the museum's collections, facilities, staff, and programs will also be considered. Candidates must be proficient in reading and speaking English. A committee comprised of Smithsonian curators and historians plus one outside scholar will review the applications.

Application Procedures

Only one application is necessary for all SAAM fellowships; applicants will automatically be considered in all relevant award categories. Applicants are encouraged to provide a statement that indicates how their research topic is particularly suited to the Terra awards.

The Terra Foundation for American Art is dedicated to fostering exploration, understanding, and enjoyment of the visual arts of the United States for national and international audiences. The foundation provides opportunities for interaction and study of original works of art, beginning with the presentation and growth of its own art collection in Chicago. To further cross-cultural dialogue on American art, the foundation supports and collaborates on innovative exhibitions, research, and education programs. Implicit in such activities is the belief that art has the potential both to distinguish cultures and to unite them.