Welcome back to GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch! Host Libby Hikind, author of Queen of Grants, chats with Alexis Hyde, Director of the Artist-in-Residence program at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP. Together, they explore how this groundbreaking art residency connects a prestigious law firm with local artists, sharing space, and creating a vibrant and enriching internal community.
Supporting Artists in LA, New York, and London
The Artist-in-Residence program at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP utilizes unused law offices to provide local artists with studio space. Each artist receives $20,000 over four months, allowing them to focus entirely on their craft.
“Artists’ work is real work,” Hyde emphasizes. “This art residency validates that by offering both financial and physical support.” In fact, the firm goes above and beyond by offering the resident artists partner offices so they have a large space in which to create. Currently, the program operates in Los Angeles, New York, and London, hosting two artists per location: two LA artists, two New York artists, and two London artists.
Resident Artists and Law Firm Unite
This incredible art residency has a meaningful impact on the artists and the firm’s lawyers and employees. Resident artists work alongside lawyers and staff, executing their daily creative processes. “Seeing an artist’s work up close helps demystify the creative process and fosters mutual appreciation,” Hyde explains. The program also concludes with an exhibition and the acquisition of an artwork for the firm’s collection, further supporting the artists.
Applying to the Program
Applications for the residency program are open to local artists when calls are announced (LA artists apply in LA, New York artists apply an New York, and London artists apply in London). The process is straightforward: submit a 500-word statement about your practice, a CV, and a portfolio of 8-10 images. Hyde stressed the importance of following directions—a critical step in evaluating applicants’ professionalism and reliability.
Artists interested in applying can stay updated by following the program’s Instagram account (@qeartistresidency) or visiting the Quinn Emanuel website.
A Model for Art Residency and Corporate Patronage
While currently limited to LA, New York, and London, Alexis wants to expand to other cities. She expresses excitement about the possibility of reaching more communities and supporting diverse artistic mediums, as long as they align with the practicalities of an office environment. “We’ve hosted painters, photographers, textile artists, and even performance artists,” she notes. “The possibilities are vast, as long as the medium fits the space.”
Hyde hopes this program inspires other corporations to explore innovative ways to support the arts. “It’s a small investment compared to other corporate expenses but creates immense value for artists and employees alike,” she says. “It’s about enriching the community while fostering creativity and connection within the workplace.”
Final Thoughts
This art residency highlights the potential of corporate patronage to support artistic growth. With this solid commitment to the arts and its community, Quinn Emanuel’s Artist-in-Residence program is setting a remarkable example of how corporations can make a meaningful impact!
GrantTalk Links
📌 Contact Information For Alexis Hyde
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