Open call
Application deadline: July 15, 2025
Oregon State University and Polar STEAM invite applications to the Antarctic Artists & Writers Fellowship.
The Antarctic Artists & Writers program facilitates deployments to the Antarctic for creative practitioners within the arts and humanities. Collaborations between polar researchers, artists, and writers help increase the public’s awareness and appreciation for human and scientific endeavors in polar regions. The fellowship results in the creation of new artworks or published writing conceptualized during time spent on antarctic research vessels or field stations.
What is Polar STEAM for Artists & Writers?
Polar STEAM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math, is a national program that aims to facilitate an understanding of the Polar regions and their people, and to commit to share what we learn with the world.
Artist and Writer Fellows are supported in their arts-focused, scientific, and educational practices as they develop and share new creative works and/or educational resources that engage learners of all ages in understanding the global importance of polar environments.
Polar STEAM welcomes applications from practicing artists, writers, and performers in a variety of genres, from traditional to experimental.
What is the duration of the deployments?
This application is for deployments between four and eight weeks in length during the 2026–27 Antarctic summer season, typically October through February, with a possible option for early season (August through September).
Because the potential creative scope of projects will be determined in part by logistical considerations in the remote Antarctic environment, we strongly encourage applicants to view the informational webinar in order to prepare the strongest possible application. The webinar is available on our YouTube channel.
What are the eligibility requirements for Polar STEAM programs?
In accordance with NSF guidelines, educators, artists, and writers must be U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Additional requirements can be found in our FAQs.
Before applying: Please read the FAQs on the Polar STEAM website.
For functional assistance with the application or submission process, please email joy.jensen [at] oregonstate.edu. Staff are unable to comment on the merit of the creative proposal, but can provide assistance with the application process.
If you have program-specific questions, please email polarsteam [at] oregonstate.edu
To stay connected and receive updates about future opportunities, join our email list and follow us on social media @polarsteamteam.
Application deadline: July 15, 2025, 11:59pm Pacific Time. Polar STEAM is a National Science Foundation (NSF) funded program run by an interdisciplinary team at Oregon State University.