Photo courtesy of the U.S. Forest Service The ANF's first Artist-in-Residence, Warren Bensken, shows his centennial-themed print at a demonstration program held at Laughing Owl Press in Kane.

The Allegheny National Forest is seeking applications for its 2024 Artist-in-Residence program.

The application window is open through March 17.

“The Artist-in-Residence Program provides artists of all mediums the opportunity to pursue their craft outside of their normal environments,” ANF Public Affairs Officer Chris Leeser said. “The three-week program immerses chosen applicants into the natural setting of Allegheny National Forest to inspire their works.”

Artists selected will receive three weeks of free housing and a stipend as well as easy access to the forest, field trips with Forest Service staff and networking opportunities with local arts organizations.

“Artists of all experience levels and mediums are encouraged to apply,” Leeser said.

“Art is about storytelling,” Artist-in-Residence Program Coordinator Kate Fenstermacher said. “It allows for the creation of multiple narratives of our lives, both individually and as a whole. We are intrinsically connected to the future and what we do now and how we speak about our public lands sets the stage for the next 100 years.

“The Forest hopes to broaden and diversify the conversation of why public lands are vital and to share with communities the importance of conserving natural spaces.”

Those looking to apply are encouraged to visit the Artist-in-Residence webpage on the ANF’s website. Anyone with questions is asked to contact Fenstermacher at katherine.fenstermacher@usda.gov or (814) 363-6049.