The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM), located in the heart of Philadelphia, stands as a unique and internationally recognized institution. Renowned for its dedication to innovative art and its rich history, FWM has been a magnet for artists and art aficionados since 1977. With a core mission of collaborating with artists to explore new artistic horizons, FWM has consistently redefined the boundaries of art, positioning itself as a must-visit for those intrigued by experimental material and new media art.

Founded by Marion “Kippy” Boulton Stroud (1939-2015), FWM has evolved into a dynamic space for artists to explore and experiment. Initially conceived as a platform for artists to work with fabric, it now embraces a broad spectrum of innovative materials and media. The Artist-in-Residence Program epitomizes this spirit, inviting artists at different career stages to collaborate with FWM. Such partnerships often inspire artists to venture into novel territories, producing works that are both revolutionary and indicative of their artistic journey.

The Artist-in-Residence (AIR) Program at FWM offers contemporary artists an opportunity to craft new pieces using experimental materials and methods. FWM extends comprehensive support for artistic ventures, including honorariums, materials, and access to its state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff. A defining feature of the residency is the synergy with the FWM Studio team, a diverse group of artists. Each resident collaborates closely with a Project Coordinator, and under the stewardship of FWM’s Director of Studio Operations, the broader team aids in material experimentation and conceptual development, often augmented by field studies in Philadelphia. Moreover, the AIR Program is integral to FWM’s pioneering exhibition endeavors, with the Curator and FWM’s Artist Advisory Committee meeting biannually to select potential resident artists.

Since its establishment in 1977, FWM has journeyed from being a bold artistic experiment to emerging as a distinguished institution in contemporary art. Marion Boulton Stroud’s innovative vision was to integrate the esteemed practices of Marimekko, a notable fabric printing company, with the nuances of contemporary printmaking ateliers. This integration not only offered artists a unique canvas for exploration but also laid the foundation for an urban art education program. Tailored to embrace learners of all ages, this initiative provided a holistic insight into the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary artistic expression.

The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) fully funds the Artists-in-Residence project budget, covering all costs related to the agreed-upon project without charging the participating artists. This budget encompasses the artist’s honorarium, material and production costs for new works, and exhibition staging expenses, with large-scale projects often backed by significant grants. While there’s no requirement for artists to have prior experience in textiles or screenprinting, FWM encourages exploration in these areas due to their expertise. 

The Fabric Workshop and Museum (FWM) offers a flexible residency duration, typically ranging from 18 months to two and a half years, depending on factors like the nature of the show, medium, and gallery size. Some residencies may extend to support ambitious projects. The residency comprises four phases: Experimentation, where initial ideas are discussed; Prototype, where a general project direction is established; Production, where the actual work begins; and Exhibition, where the works are displayed to the public. While artists aren’t required to relocate to Philadelphia, FWM covers accommodations for site visits, which become more frequent as the exhibition phase approaches. Most interactions between FWM and artists occur remotely, with materials often exchanged by mail. There’s no application for the FWM residency; artists are selected by invitation. The residency emphasizes experimentation and innovation, allowing artists to explore beyond their known practices in a non-market-oriented environment, leading to potentially transformative impacts on their work.

Education has always been at the heart of FWM. From its early days, it functioned as a learning hub for Philadelphia’s youth, who, as printing apprentices, acquired both technical skills and creative insights. Present-day visitors can observe art in its various phases, as the entire artistic process, from imagination to realization, unfolds in the on-site studios. Their High School Apprentice Training Program provides paid training to selected Philadelphia high school students, introducing them to museum practices, contemporary art, and design. These apprentices gain invaluable experience in screen printing on fabric and producing their own designs. For those at the collegiate level or recent graduates, the College and Post-Graduate Apprentice Training Program offers an immersive 8-week summer experience in textile screen-printing and fabric dyeing, allowing participants to work closely with FWM’s esteemed staff and visiting artists. Beyond these structured programs, FWM extends its educational outreach through guided Museum Tours, offering insights into current exhibitions and the intricate collaboration processes behind them. Visitors can also delve deeper with a behind-the-scenes look at the FWM studios, exploring the rich history contained within over 400 artist boxes in the archive. For those eager to get their hands dirty, FWM hosts Hands-on Screenprinting Workshops, where participants can learn the nuances of the screenprinting process and create their own artwork.

The Fabric Workshop and Museum stands as a tribute to the synergy of collaboration, innovation, and education in contemporary art. With its storied past, unwavering support for artists, and community engagement, FWM continues to shine brightly in the art world. It has been the birthplace of significant artistic developments, such as Mona Hatoum’s first pin carpet, Anish Kapoor’s initial foray into felt’s sculptural possibilities, Senga Nengudi’s first video work, and Rose B. Simpson’s architectural environment, marking it as a fertile ground for artistic evolution and a beacon of inspiration for the future of art.