Folger Institute Long-term Public Humanities Fellowships 2027-28

About this call

The Folger Institute's Long-term Public Humanities Fellowships support significant, full-time research and public humanities project development related to the histories, concepts, art and objects of the early modern world (about 1400 to 1800) and its legacies, drawing on the collections, exhibitions and programming of the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington, DC, United States. Applicants must propose at least one public humanities engagement developed with Folger Institute staff, such as readings, talks, videos, podcasts, workshops, community activations, performances, or digital work on non-Folger platforms such as games and online resources. Past artist fellows have worked through performance, tarot and poetry. Fellows may live in Folger housing or off site; onsite studio space is not available. Virtual information sessions are offered on 9 October and 1 December 2026 at 12pm ET.

Who can apply

• Open to applicants of any nationality
• Medium: Performance / Writing / Mixed Media
• Entry fee: See official site
• Open to applicants of any nationality: college and university faculty, independent scholars, artists, public scholars, writers, PhD candidates, postdocs, community leaders, cultural workers, educators and other knowledge holders. A terminal degree is not required, but the CV should describe equivalent training and industry-specific experience. Apply through the online portal with a 250-word abstract, a 1,500-word project description including detailed descriptions and timelines of at least one public humanities program (and a work plan with location and justification for any virtual months), a two-page CV, a one to two-page list of Folger primary sources you wish to consult onsite, and one letter of recommendation (an application missing the letter may be disadvantaged but is not ineligible or formally penalized). Portfolio materials related to the project are optional. Fellowships are for full-time work; only a project lead may apply, a project may receive at most two Folger fellowships, and a Folger fellowship may not overlap another fellowship period. Fellows arrange their own studio space if needed. Virtual months may cover research with online collections, writing, editing, creative work and studio time related to the project, and may also support applicants with dependent care responsibilities. The Folger can sponsor international fellows under the J-1 visa and covers the application costs for those awarded. The Folger will not acquire or archive any materials resulting from the fellowship. Long-term awards are announced in early March.