ABOUT THE TRIP
The Creative Justice Journey: Race, Art, and Memory in Montgomery and Atlanta will take place November 11-15, 2026. For five days, we will visit sites using sculpture, music, storytelling, photography, and immersive installations at places such as EJI’s The Legacy Museum and National Memorial for Peace and Justice, where visitors gain a clearer understanding of our nation’s history of racial injustice and its continuing impact. We will visit artist-led spaces, like the Mothers of Gynecology Museum, where artist Michelle Browder has used her art to bring truth to the abhorrent legacy of the “Father of Gynecology,” J. Marion Simms. Along the way, we will eat delicious food, enjoy the live music scene of Montgomery, and conclude our trip with a powerful service at the famed Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta.
Joining us will be Artist-in-Residence, Stephen Hayes. Based in Durham, Stephen’s work “Cash Crop” is featured at the EJI’s Freedom Monument Sculpture Park.
ABOUT THE COHORT
The Creative Justice Cohort will include up to ten artists who will join us for the trip free of charge. As a selected member of the cohort, you will receive free lodging, transportation and meals.
Upon returning, the cohort will share stories, inspiration, and lessons learned with one another, resulting in a collaborative exhibit during June, 2027 at the Eno Arts Mill Gallery in Hillsborough, home of Orange County’s annual Juneteenth Celebration.
While participation in the resulting project is mandatory, we understand artists are busy. Your contribution can be as involved as your capacity allows.
TIMELINE
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Application Opens Friday, June 12, 2026
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Application Closes Friday, July 31, 2026, 11:59pm
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Artists will be notified no later than September 15, 2026
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Creative Justice Journey: Wednesday, November 11 – Sunday, November 15, 2026
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First cohort planning meeting: December, 2026
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Creative Justice Cohort exhibit: June, 2027
APPLICATION AND ELIGIBILITY
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Artist applicants must live within a 30-mile radius of Hillsborough, NC.
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Orange County artists will be prioritized, but artists from surrounding counties are encouraged to apply.
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BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Artists will be prioritized, but artists of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
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All art forms are welcomed, including but not limited to visual art, performance, literary art, film, and media.
Application requirements:
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Artist statement about your work, inspiration, and medium(s)
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Statement explaining how this experience will help you further your artistic growth and what you hope to gain.
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5 images/links of work produced in the last five years
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Two letters of recommendation (optional)
