Proposed as a founding initiative in 1968, the Artist in Residence program has earned The Studio Museum in Harlem recognition for its catalytic role in advancing the work of visual artists of African and Afro-Latinx descent.

Every year, the Museum offers an eleven-month residency for three local, national, or international artists working in any media. Individuals selected for the residency receive institutional guidance and professional development, research support, studio space, and a stipend paid out over the course of the residency. In addition to their time in the studio, artists participate in Museum public programs and educational studio visits with community partners. The residency culminates with a group exhibition featuring artworks made by each of the artists during their time in the program.