Menu
Log in
Log in


Where Art Meets International Affairs

The BPIA Artist in Residence is a creative ambassador for Black Professionals in International Affairs, using original artistic work to bring global issues to life and make international affairs felt, seen, and accessible to all.

Learn About the Awards

About the Program

We are proud to introduce the BPIA Artist in Residence, a new role designed to serve as a creative ambassador within our community. Through artistic expression, this role highlights global issues, elevates diverse narratives, and advances BPIA's mission to foster meaningful engagement across international affairs, policy, and diplomacy.

The Artist in Residence is one of BPIA's signature recognition programs, presented each year during National BPIA Week alongside the BPIA Global Leader Awards, the Power 50 List, and the Goodwill Ambassador Program. Together, these programs honor exceptional leaders, changemakers, artists, diplomats, and rising professionals whose work is advancing global affairs.

Why Art Belongs in International Affairs

BPIA takes a broad view of international affairs, one that spans policy, business, civil society, and culture. Artists and cultural leaders shape global narratives, shift public consciousness, and often serve as informal diplomats who bridge borders and communities through storytelling, visual art, fashion, and performance.

In today's interconnected world, art is not peripheral to global affairs. It is central to how nations, communities, and movements are seen, understood, and engaged. The Artist in Residence reflects this modern, multidimensional view of global impact.


Selected once a year during National BPIA Week for their artistic excellence, originality, and demonstrated commitment to social impact, the Artist in Residence brings a distinct and valuable perspective that enriches BPIA’s programming, communications, and storytelling. Their work may be featured across events, briefings, publications, and digital platforms, contributing to a more dynamic and multidisciplinary approach to engagement.


Meet the 2026 BPIA Artists in Residence









The Role of the Artist in Residence

The Artist in Residence engages audiences through original creative work across mediums, using art to translate complex global topics into compelling, accessible, and human-centered narratives. Through this work, the Artist in Residence helps to:

  • Broaden understanding of international issues among new and diverse audiences

  • Spark curiosity and invite people into global conversations

  • Deepen public connection to the people and places behind policy decisions

  • Foster reflection and dialogue that inspires action

As a bridge between the worlds of art and policy, the Artist in Residence plays a unique role in shaping how ideas are experienced and understood, helping ensure that global conversations are not only informed, but also felt, seen, and widely accessible.


Where Their Work Appears

The Artist in Residence brings a distinct perspective that enriches BPIA's programming, communications, and storytelling. Their work may be featured across:

  • BPIA events, including National BPIA Week

  • Policy briefings and convenings

  • BPIA publications

  • Digital platforms and social media


Selection

Artists in Residence are selected for:

  • Artistic excellence

  • Originality

  • A demonstrated commitment to social impact


Get Involved

Interested in collaborating with our Artists in Residence, featuring their work, or supporting the program? We would love to hear from you.

Contact: bpiaoutreach@iabpia.org

Learn more about all BPIA Awards: www.iabpia.org/awards




Join the BPIA E-newsletter Mailing List

BPIA sends monthly e-newsletter to the BPIA community highlighting upcoming events, job announcement, fellowships, news, and more.


BPIA membership is open to all applicants who support our mission and goals without regard to race, religion/creed, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual preference or identity.

Email
bpiaoutreach@iabpia.org

Mailing Address

BPIA

P.O. Box 55922

Washington, DC 20011


BPIA Copyright 2022. All Right Reserved. Carefully Crafted by sēdr studio

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software