c3lab public arts fellowship 2026-2028
The C3-Lab Public Arts Fellowship was developed as a continuation of the mission of the former C3Lab creative coworking hub: to support artists in the Charlotte community and strengthen cultural vitality across the Southeast. Following the closure of the original creative space, the parent design-build firm: ACSM Design + Build, reimagined the program as a focused, studio-based fellowship centered on professional education, technical training, and hands-on experience in public art.
This 18-month fellowship, which runs September 1, 2026-February 29, 2028 supports emerging and mid-career artists seeking to expand into the public art realm. While fellows work collaboratively as a duo, artists apply individually and are asked within the application to identify their proposed partner and describe why they would form a strong collaborative team.
The curriculum explores the full design + build process—from concept development and digital modeling to materials selection, fabrication, and installation. Fellows gain real-world experience navigating construction drawings, shop practices, fabrication workflows, community engagement, and professional documentation.
Fellows are responsible for their own art supplies, transportation, and housing. Tools and equipment are available during workshop hours. Participants must be fully committed to scheduled sessions and actively engaged in the studio throughout the fellowship term.
Artist duos are selected through a juried review process composed of public art professionals and community stakeholders. This opportunity is intended for serious applicants ready to engage deeply in a hands-on learning environment and expand their capacity to execute large-scale public art projects.