Sanford Underground Research Facility 2027 Artist Residency: $5,000 Stipend, Apply by 1 November
Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead, South Dakota is receiving applications for its 2027 Artist-in-Residence programme until 1 November 2026. It offers a rare setting for artists who use scientific research, technology and place-based investigations as material for new visual, moving-image or interdisciplinary work. SURF's updated 2027 announcement—not an older programme-year page—is the source for this year's deadline.
What makes the residency distinctive?
The programme takes place around a former deep gold mine that now supports experiments in physics, biology, geology and engineering. At 4,850 feet underground, the research environment offers unusual material for artists exploring scientific instruments, invisible phenomena, measurement, data, geology and human interactions with technology. The artist does not need to claim scientific credentials but should show how their practice can engage meaningfully with this environment.
Support and activities in 2027
Four-week summer residency visit, followed by an autumn exhibition and guest lecture.
US$5,000 artist stipend and up to a further US$5,000 in project support, as stated in the 2027 announcement.
Travel, accommodation and related expenses are included under the programme arrangements.
Access to scientists, the surface and underground research context, subject to safety protocols and site restrictions.
Who can apply and what should be prepared?
The organiser welcomes artists in all media, including visual artists, filmmakers, writers and musicians. The application asks for a strong professional exhibition or project record. Artists working with digital moving images, installation, data or research-based practices may find the programme particularly relevant, though their suitability depends on the proposal rather than medium alone.
Letter of intent explaining the artistic concept, interest in SURF and proposed contribution.
CV or résumé of up to two to five pages, following the portal's instructions.
15–20 examples of work completed in the previous five years, with identification details.
Proposed materials budget if costs beyond the stipend are expected.
Contact details for three professional references.
Who organises the programme?
SURF administers the programme in partnership with Black Hills State University. Its earlier artist participants include Rachel Berg (2026), Chris Combs (2025) and Marty Two Bulls (2024), demonstrating an established residency and exhibition record. Participants must follow research facility safety and access requirements.
Apply through the official laboratory
The official 2027 announcement provides the current award and deadline; use the programme page's own application portal to submit before 1 November 2026. Check the portal for time-zone and residency-access details.
Official 2027 call and funding announcement → https://sanfordlab.org/news/surf-opens-applications-2027-artist-residence
SURF programme and application portal → https://sanfordlab.org/programs/SURFAiR
Information confirmed against the 2027 organiser announcement, dated September 2026. Country: United States; type: art-and-science residency; deadline: 1 November 2026.