• Badlands formations against the blue sky; photo by Rikk Flohr

    Badlands

    National Park South Dakota

Artist in Residence

"As I begin to pack my belongings, I’m replaying brilliant and sublime moments from this past month in the Badlands. Erosion. Weather. Geology. Solitude. It truly has been a spectacular and diverse time to be here, a real blessing."
-Kathleen M. Heideman, Poet, 2010 Artist in Residence

 
Big Badlands Overlook by Photographer Rikk Flohr, 2008 Artist in Residence
Big Badlands Overlook by Photographer Rikk Flohr, 2008 Artist in Residence
© 2008 Rikk Flohr
 

The Artist in Residence program at Badlands National Park was founded in 1996 and is open to all professional artists. Writers, composers and all visual and performing artists are invited to interpret this wind-swept environment through their work. The program provides time for artists to get away from everyday responsibilities to focus on their surroundings and their medium.

 
Photographer at Yellow Mounds Overlook by Photographer Gabby Salazar, 2008 Artist in Residence

© 2008 Gabby Salazar

The breathtaking scenery of the Badlands has drawn photographers to this area long before the Artist in Residence program even existed at the park.

Photographers Gallery
Artist Statements

 
Prairie Rattler by Painter Burt Calkins, 1996 Artist in Residence

© 1996 Burt Calkins

Many visual artists have served residencies at the Badlands to furthur their personal artistic pursuits. These include painters, sculptors, ceramists, and printmakers.

Painters - Visual Artists Gallery
Artist Statements

 
Road from Fort Laramie to Fort Pierre by Poet Kathleen Heideman, 2010 Artist in Residence

© 2010 Kathleen M. Heideman

Poets, writers, and composers represent an important aspect of the Artist in Residence program. These artists have found creative inspiration within the Badlands to produce written word and compositions of musical expression.

Poets - Writers - Composers Gallery

 

Due to a lack of gallery space within the public park facilities, most of the artwork submissions are not on display for the public to view. This online gallery provides a virtual display space, making the artwork accessible for the public to view and enjoy. For a closer look, check out the Artist in Residence video podcast and hear the voices of former artists.

For information on how to apply, see the Artist in Residence site bulletin.

Did You Know?

Ben Reifel speaking at the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater - 1971

The Ben Reifel Visitor Center was named after Ben Reifel, the first congressman from the Sioux Nation, who served 5 terms. Afterwards, he served as consultant and Special Assistant for Indian Programs to the Director of the National Park Service. Badlands was his favorite national park.