Prestigious program champions interdisciplinary research, driving fresh inquiries into the rich landscape of American art
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BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 cohort of the Tyson Scholars of American Art Program. The residential research and writing-focused fellowship for interdisciplinary scholars has been expanding the boundaries of investigation into American art since its inception in 2012. Through a $5 million commitment from the Tyson Family Foundation and Tyson Foods, Inc., the Tyson Scholars Program has supported the work of 85 scholars, attracting academic professionals in a variety of disciplines nationally and internationally who have worked on books, articles, and exhibition projects while in residence.
Crystal Bridges and the Tyson Scholars Program invite scholars focused on visual art, architecture, craft, visual and material culture, performance art, or new media. The program also invites applications from scholars approaching US art transregionally and looking at the broader geographical context of the Americas, especially Indigenous and Latinx art. Crystal Bridges invites anyone holding or pursuing a terminal degree in their field to apply. The program offers fellowships proportionate to experience, including pre-doctoral (or equivalent), post-graduate, and senior scholars.
Fellowships are residential and support full-time writing and research for terms that range from six weeks to nine months. Stipends vary depending on the duration of residency and experience, and range from $20,000 to $40,000 per semester, plus provided housing. The residency includes $1,500 for relocation expenses and additional research funds upon application.
Scholars are provided a workspace in the Crystal Bridges Library. While in residence, Tyson Scholars have access to the art and library collections of Crystal Bridges, as well as the library and archives at the University of Arkansas in nearby Fayetteville. During their residency, Tyson Scholars will intersect meaningfully with the dynamic arts ecosystem in Northwest Arkansas.
Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are open now and close December 18, 2025. Prospective scholars can apply online through Crystal Bridges’ website.
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About Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
The mission of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of nature. Since opening in 2011, the museum has welcomed more than 14 million visitors across its spaces, with no cost for admission. Crystal Bridges was founded in 2005 as a non-profit charitable organization by arts patron and philanthropist, Alice Walton. The collection spans five centuries of American masterworks from early American to current day and is enhanced by temporary exhibitions. The museum is nestled on 134 acres of Ozark landscape and was designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie. A rare Frank Lloyd Wright-designed house was preserved and relocated to the museum grounds in 2015. Home of the prestigious Don Tyson Prize for the Advancement of American Art and Tyson Scholars of American Art Program, Crystal Bridges offers public programs including lectures, performances, classes, and teacher development opportunities. Some 478,375 school children have participated in the Willard and Pat Walker School Visit program, which provides educational experiences for school groups at no cost to the schools. Additional museum amenities include a restaurant, gift store, library, and five miles of art and walking trails. In February 2020, the museum opened the Momentary in Downtown Bentonville (507 SE E Street), conceived as a platform for the art, food, and music of our time. In 2026, Crystal Bridges will complete a 114,000 square foot expansion that will allow the museum to expand access for all. For more information, visit CrystalBridges.org. The museum is located at 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, Arkansas 72712.
About the Tyson Family Foundation
Established in 1970, the Tyson Family Foundation supports efforts for education, health, arts and culture, youth programs, and a scholarship program for Tyson Foods employees and their families. The foundation has endowed and supported local, regional, and national organizations committed to furthering access to knowledge, promoting creativity, and supporting communities. President Olivia Tyson currently leads the Foundation.
Media Contact
media@crystalbridges.org