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Wassaic Project 2026 Haunted Barn Open Call

The Wassaic Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, uses art and arts education to foster positive social change located in Wassaic, NY. The organization nurtures connections between our artists and our neighbors facilitating a mutual broadening of perspectives and respect across economic and cultural boundaries.

For the first time, Wassaic Project’s incredibly popular Haunted Barn event will be reimagined and hosted at the Luther Barn, home of the Wassaic Project Summer Studios. Expect soaring ceilings, rustic beams, shadowy corners, and endless possibilities for immersive installations and performances.

Artists are invited to apply for a fully funded 1 – 4 week residency to create work for this one-of-a-kind Halloween experience. Wassaic Project is offering $500 – $1000 honorariums (depending on the scope of the project) to participating artists and artistic teams for your hard work and creativity.

EVENT DATES AND PUBLIC HOURS The Haunted Barn will be open to the public:

  • Friday, October 23, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • Sunday, October 25, 2026 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Artists working in installation, sculpture, sound, video, performance, and immersive practices are invited to transform the Luther Barn into a PG-13 haunted experience.

For installations and performances, you’ll have total creative freedom — just keep it PG-13!

This residency and exhibition are for you if you’re an artist who:

  • Loves to push boundaries
  • Embraces the strange and unexpected
  • Thrives working independently
  • Wants to create an immersive, site-responsive experience

For Performance Artists: Time-based performers are encouraged to apply. If your work includes video documentation or media samples, you may include links to:

  • YouTube
  • Vimeo
  • SoundCloud

THE RESIDENCY Selected artists will receive:

  • A fully funded 1–4 week residency
  • Studio space in the Luther Barn and Maxon Mill
  • Housing accommodations
  • Limited support from Wassaic Project staff
  • Access to our print and wood shops
  • The opportunity to present work to a wide, enthusiastic audience during one of our most beloved (and well-attended) annual events

Apply now and help us make 2026 the most thrilling Haunted Barn yet.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

  • Contact information
  • Proposal
  • 1–10 work samples (5 or more images of completed works and 1-5 sketches, mock-ups, or works in progress of what you’re thinking about for your installation)
  • CV (PDF, 2 pages maximum)
  • $25 application fee

Application Deadline: Monday, May 18 2026, midnight EST

Deadline: 05/18/2026