UIS Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon launches Artist in Residence program

LEWISTOWN, Ill.  – The University of Illinois Springfield’s Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon (TFSE) is launching a new Artist in Residence (AIR) program this summer to connect the science of floodplain restoration with artistic expression.

The program invites artists to engage with the unique landscape and ecological work at the Emiquon Preserve—one of the Midwest’s largest floodplain restoration projects and a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Selected artists will have access to the preserve, TFSE facilities and outdoor spaces to pursue a creative project inspired by the site.

The goal of the AIR program is to foster a community of artists while providing space to interpret and reflect on the Emiquon Preserve through diverse artistic genres. Artists will be required to learn about the history and science of the site, interact with the natural environment and produce original work inspired by their experience. Participants will also be asked to lead one informal public event, share a significant outcome from their residency and grant TFSE permission to use or display a piece of their work.

Residencies are available for up to four weeks and include a private room in dormitory-style housing on-site. Funding is available to offset housing, travel and material costs for projects completed by Aug. 30, 2025, with support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and local funds from the Two Rivers Arts Council.

Artists working in any medium—including but not limited to painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, music, dance, handcrafts and creative writing—are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by May 16, 2025, for projects beginning on or after June 2, 2025. For more information or to apply, visit uis.edu/emiquon/visit-emiquon/artist-residence.

The Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon, located within The Nature Conservancy’s Emiquon Preserve, provides researchers and students of all ages with opportunities to explore, discover and learn from this vital restoration project. Learn more at uis.edu/emiquon or follow TFSE on Facebook at Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon.