Allerton’s In-Residence Program offers individuals the opportunity to live on the Allerton estate and create work inspired by their experience. Residencies encourage creative exploration and focused experiences with art and nature while contributing to our goals of community engagement through education and research.
The In-Residence Program not only supports and highlights the meaningful work of artists and naturalists but brings awareness to the unique characteristics of the Park and continues the legacy of Robert Allerton.
Applications for the Spring 2027 Joan and Peter Hood Residency will open September 1.
Click to find information on our past residents.
“Establishing this new program provided us the opportunity to blend our support of educational activities with the programming objectives of Allerton. It strengthens the academic mission while creating support for a naturalist, visual or performing artist, all of whom are important to us.“
—Joan and Peter Hood, inaugural program donors
Historical Influence
Guided by his philosophy to live life as art and his love of nature, Robert Allerton created an extraordinary vision that was shared with the public when he donated his private estate to the University of Illinois in 1946. During his life, Robert hosted composers, painters, sculptors, journalists, and others associated with the cultural pursuits he enjoyed, allowing them to experience the tranquility, energy, and natural beauty of his home. Robert would often commission a piece of artwork, or an artist would gift a project created during their stay. Great thinkers, creators, and artists found inspiration at Allerton.
Allerton Park is a work of art in itself, reflecting Robert’s sensitivity to the total environment as he brought together a combination of wooded areas, formal gardens, meadows, buildings, and sculpture to interact with and enhance each other. Today, we remain committed to utilizing this unique cultural space to inspire creation, connection, and appreciation for the arts and our natural world.
“Allerton is a very special place that can provide an alternate venue for education and learning outside the university campus and in the community. We are looking forward to seeing this incredible new program come to life, and watching it evolve over time.”
—Dana Brehm & Larry Baumann, Residence donors
Frequently-Asked Questions
Am I eligible to apply?
The Artist-in-Residence program is open to all artists, including but not limited to: sculptors, photographers, painters, printmakers, installation artists, videographers, sound artists, writers and poets, and performing artists.
Naturalists-in-Residence could include researchers, scientists, educators, authors, environmental activists, and more.
Our Rooting A Deeper Connection program is open to artists and naturalists whose work highlights and celebrates the arts and study of nature within Black and Latinx communities.
When is the application deadline?
You can find information and deadlines on the individual program pages: Artist-in-Residence, Naturalists-in-Residence, Rooting A Deeper Connection
Where will I live?
Private accommodations will be available on the Allerton estate with views of the beautiful park. Access to the the entirety of the park will be available for the artist to work on their art. Amenities include Wi-Fi, TV, laundry machine (bring your own soap). Explore our in-residence spaces.
Can I bring my partner/child/pet?
Partners and child(ren) of residents may stay in the provided lodging during the residency term as long as they do not interfere with the goals of the residency. Pets are not allowed.
Are collaborations or collectives allowed to apply for residency?
Yes, lodging options are available, but the stipend will apply to the team as a whole.
If I am selected, am I tied to my residency project proposal?
No. We want the resident to make work inspired by their experiences at Allerton and understand that may be different once on-site.
Do I need to have a completed work of art by the end of my residency?
No, with some exceptions. We prefer quality work that is meaningful to the resident verses work that is rushed. You have up to a year to finish your production. However, if the artist is hoping to create a site-specific installation or sculpture before their residency period ends, the scale and scope of the piece needs to be considered prior to the start of the work and approved by Allerton staff.
Do I have to live on-site for the entire residency?
No, but we prefer the artist to immerse themselves in the Allerton experience during their time here. There is an expectation that you will live on-site for the majority of your residency.
Is it possible to break up the residency in different terms?
This could be allowed, but prior permission will have to be granted, and this should be stated in your application.
Will Allerton provide material support?
Material support is not available, but there is plenty of found material that may be available for use. Please note the use of natural or found material in your application.
Will Allerton provide meals or laundry services?
No. Allerton will not provide meals or laundry service. However, residents will have limited access to a kitchen and laundry machines will be available for use on-site. Residents will be responsible for all food, drink, and laundry soap.
Will I have access to a kitchen?
Yes. Kitchen includes use of a sink, microwave, hotplate, refrigerator, freezer, pots/pans, plates, and silverware.
What type of equipment is available?
Beyond the studio space, no equipment will be available to the artist.
Will Allerton assist in transportation?
No. Artist will be responsible for all transportation. This includes trips to Allerton, around Allerton Park once you are here, and any trips needed for supplies. Allerton staff and fleet will not be available for any transportation needs.
Who are you looking for as my references?
References can be anyone who can attest to you character and life as an artist. Mentors, peers, professors and others. Avoid providing references who have an impressive reputation, but with whom you don’t have a close relationship.
