Fully Funded Margaret F. Williams Fellowship in Asian Art 2026 (USA) – Residency, Travel, and Stipend

The Margaret F. Williams Memorial Fellowship in Asian Art 2026, organized by The Asia Foundation in partnership with the Asian Art Museum, is now open for applications. This prestigious fully funded fellowship offers emerging contemporary art curators the opportunity to participate in a 3-month residency in San Francisco, USA.

The program focuses on community-centered curatorial practices, global collaboration, and professional growth. It aims to support emerging curatorial voices and build stronger connections between Asia, the United States, and the Pacific region.

About the Fellowship

The fellowship provides a unique platform for curators to engage with leading experts, artists, and institutions in the contemporary art world. Fellows will work closely with the museum’s Contemporary Art Department and contribute to exhibitions, public programs, and innovative research projects.

This international residency supports cross-cultural exchange and encourages new perspectives in Asian and Asian American art.

Fellowship Theme for 2026

The 2026 cycle highlights:

• Participatory and socially engaged art
• Community-rooted cultural and curatorial practice
• Digital and research-driven art initiatives
• Diasporic and transnational artistic dialogue
• Long-term community partnerships

The fellowship encourages experimental curatorial methods and inclusive approaches to art and culture.

Duration and Location

• Residency: June 1 to August 31, 2026
• Location: San Francisco, California, USA
• Duration: 3 months

Fellows must participate on-site for the full program period.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Selected fellows will receive:

• Round-trip international travel to San Francisco
• Fully covered accommodation
• Living allowance and per diem
• Professional development opportunities
• Global networking with curators and artists
• Access to museum collections and exhibitions
• A $7,500 study tour stipend
• Independent research and field visits

This financial support ensures fellows can fully focus on their professional and research goals.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be emerging contemporary art curators
• Demonstrate leadership, creativity, and collaboration
• Show strong communication and conceptual skills
• Be fluent in English
• Commit to the full residency
• Be from Asia, the United States, or the Pacific region

The program welcomes applicants from both traditional museum backgrounds and independent or community-based curatorial practices.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for:

• Emerging curators
• Artists and cultural practitioners
• Museum professionals
• Researchers and art historians
• Cultural leaders and innovators
• Independent curators

Candidates interested in social impact, community engagement, and global art dialogue are especially encouraged to apply.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The Margaret F. Williams Fellowship is one of the most respected programs in the Asian contemporary art field. It supports:

• Professional growth and global exposure
• Interdisciplinary learning
• Cultural diplomacy and exchange
• Inclusive and community-driven art
• Future leadership in curatorial practice

Since its launch in 2007, the program has built a strong network of curators who are shaping the global art ecosystem.

Application Deadline

• Deadline: March 24, 2026

Early application is strongly recommended due to the highly competitive selection process.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application online through the official fellowship portal. Prepare:

• Updated CV
• Statement of purpose
• Research or curatorial proposal
• Portfolio or relevant work
• Letters of recommendation

Finalists will be notified after the review process.

The Margaret F. Williams Memorial Fellowship 2026 is a transformative opportunity for emerging curators seeking international exposure, professional development, and global networks. With full financial support, a prestigious residency, and mentorship from global experts, this fellowship is a gateway to a successful career in contemporary art.

If you are passionate about Asian art, community engagement, and cross-cultural collaboration, this fully funded program can elevate your curatorial journey to the next level.