2026 Visiting Artist Program Guidelines
Application deadline 03/18/26
Honoring the visionary spirit of James Hubbell, we invite artists to be inspired by the unique surroundings of Ilan-Lael. The captivating beauty of Ilan-Lael and Hubbell’s philosophy of connecting people with nature through art provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity for emerging and established artists to connect with our community. The program aims to foster artistic exchange, enrich the local art scene, and provide valuable experiences for artists and the public.
Program Goals
- To invite emerging and established artists to be inspired by this special place, Ilan-Lael, that is imbued with both natural and man-made beauty to create art that pushes the boundaries of their conventional practices
- To invite artists to share their practice with the Ilan-Lael community through educational programming
- To support the creative arts and to continue the legacy that James Hubbell created by using nature to inspire art
Program Details
- Participants must agree to donate one original artwork created during the program to our Harvest Moon Dinner Fundraiser hosted in late September
- Participants must agree to deliver at least one workshop, demonstration, lecture or similar educational component
- Participants may visit Ilan-Lael as often as they like with prior notification and approval
- Participants must create and exhibit a body of work inspired by Ilan-Lael
- Group exhibition will be at the Athenaeum in La Jolla, January 15-April 10th 2027
Important
- There is no lodging component or stipend offered.
- Artists will have an opportunity to sell their works at certain Ilan-Lael sponsored events and in offsite galleries arranged by ILF.
- Ilan-Lael will act as the gallery and collect commission for art sales unless otherwise noted.
Eligibility
- Open to Baja California and Southern California residents
- Must be able to provide a W-9
Selection Criteria
- Merit of past work
- Willingness to participate in educational programming (e.g. workshops, lectures, demonstrations)
- Potential to positively impact the Ilan-Lael community and alignment with the mission.
- Availability to work on-site or plein-air
- A body of work that closely reflects the values that James Hubbell brought to his own work: a love of nature, honest and clear intention, and a sincere appreciation for the impact of art upon our world
Selection Process
- Submissions are reviewed by a jury committee composed of Visiting Artists Alumni, Ilan-Lael board members and staff
- The jury uses a numeric rubric to fairly evaluate each submission against the selection criteria (above)
What You Need to Apply
- A resume or CV
- A letter of interest describing how your participation will serve the Ilan-Lael mission and your personal practice
- Photos/videos of recent work
For Questions please reach out to Rhiannon Burmeister office@ilanlaelfoundation.org