​Open call: Pratt>Forward artist mentorship program

Launched by Pratt Fine Arts in 2021 in partnership with Mickalene Thomas, BFA Fine Arts ’00, Pratt>Forward connects emerging artists with leading practitioners and thought leaders in the field and offers opportunities for professional development, community building, and creative exploration. In its third edition, Pratt>Forward is extending the opportunities offered to artists at the World Trade Center, hosted by Silver Art Projects and Silverstein Properties.

Pratt>Forward is co-directed by Thomas and South. Its core mentors for 2024 include Pratt Trustee and alumnus Derrick Adams, BFA Art and Design Education ’96; arts organizer and Director of Company Gallery Elizabeth Lamb; curator, art educator, and art advisor and host of The Art Career Podcast, Emily McElwreath; artist José Parlá; and curator, activist, and Project for Empty Space Founder Jasmine Wahi.

Pratt>Forward is for artists at the start of their professional careers. In addition to access to the program’s World Trade Center space, each artist taking part in the month-long, fully-funded program will also receive a 2,000 USD stipend. Programming will include studio visits with mentors and creative professionals, as well as bi-weekly Dialogue Sessions that emphasize professional development tools and insights.

Silver Art Projects has been fostering a community of artists in residence at the World Trade Center since 2019. When Pratt>Forward kicks off in March, its participants will have access to this vibrant community while inhabiting their own community space during the month-long Pratt>Forward program.

A series of public dialogues at the World Trade Center in conjunction with Pratt>Forward is planned for the spring with the details to be announced. The open call for 2024 Pratt>Forward artists is now open with the ten selected artists expected to be announced early next year.

To apply, complete the application here by October 20, 2023.