Photo Credit: Taylor Marrie
KAF is pleased to announce the new cohort for its 2026-2027 Kranzberg Artist in Residency (KAIR) program in Visual Arts, whose 18-month residency begins in January 2026. This year’s incoming group—Song Watkins Park, Hayveyah McGowan, Kenneth Randle, and Sukanya Mani—brings a dynamic range of perspectives and mixed-method practices that reflect the evolving landscape of contemporary art in St. Louis.
Throughout their residency, these artists will have the opportunity to expand their creative practices, develop new work, and engage directly with the community through exhibitions, programs, and conversations supported by the Foundation. Their innovative approaches and commitment to exploration will contribute meaningful dialogue and fresh energy to our artistic ecosystem.
“We encourage our community to connect with their work as they begin this next chapter and to follow their creative journeys as they continue producing impactful and thought-provoking art throughout their time with the Foundation,” says Larry Morris, KAF Director of Programs and Partnerships who oversees Residencies. “Since its inception, the Visual Arts Residency has showcased some of the top creative talent in St. Louis and we look forward to ushering in the next class.”
The Visual Arts KAIR is designed to support four outstanding visual artists in a collaborative, resource-rich environment. This residency provides artists with the time, space, and support needed to develop substantial bodies of work, foster collaboration, and fully realize their creative visions.
The four pillars provided by the Visual Arts Residency include:
- Stipend: A residency stipend of $5,000 (no additional funding)
- Promotion: Basic storytelling support through Foundation channels and newsletters
- Workspace and Presenting Space: Venue space and event staffing as well as a dedicated workspace customized to practice needs
- Community Connection: Proximity to residential organizations and other creatives
“I am truly excited to have been accepted into the Kranzberg Artist In Residency program. Being awarded this opportunity affirms both my creative journey and my drive to challenge myself to become a better artist. This experience allows me to fully immerse myself in an environment that values artistic growth, collaboration, and cultural impact,” says new resident Kenneth Randle.” I am looking forward to utilizing the resources and support provided through this program, as I believe they will help strengthen both my artistic practice and my professional development.”
Through developing and managing artistic venues, galleries, studios, and community-based programming, KAF provides essential infrastructure enabling the arts to flourish in the St. Louis region. The KAF residency program adopts an arts-based approach to community development, aligning resources and investments with community vision and needs. Committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, the program supports economic development and cultural sustainability, further positioning St. Louis as a leading arts and entertainment destination.
