FAQS AND HELPFUL HINTS
HELPFUL HINTS
+Please note+ This is the 4th year of the on-line submission process, which removes the necessity of delivering physical materials in the first round of review. It is imperative that you read through all of the guidelines and requirements for a successful application. Please also look at the calendar for upcoming information and technical sessions to assist you in your application.
Read the Instructions: Before you begin, read through the pages on Eligibility, Application Process, and Resources for Applicants.
Read the Guidelines: ‘How To’ guides for formatting images and text as well as instructions for applying online are available on the Application Process page as downloadable pdfs. These will take you step by step through the preparation and application process.
Don't wait until the last minute: The McKnight Artist Fellowships Application requires considerable attention; don't underestimate the amount of time you'll need to complete it. Deadlines are firm, so allow plenty of time to complete, review, and submit it before 5 p.m. central standard time, Friday, April 2, 2010. Our phone and email assistance is not guaranteed on the application due date.
Don't compose your answers online: We strongly suggest you compose and save your answers in a word processing program before cutting and pasting them into the McKnight Artist Fellowships Application Forms.
Count your words: The McKnight Artist Fellowships Application Forms are set to accept the specified number of words. Applications with answers consisting of more than the stated word count will not be able to submit.
Test your internet connection: Test your internet connection prior to beginning the submission process to ensure that your service won’t be interrupted while applying. DO NOT USE A DIAL UP CONNECTION. If you are not able to access a fast internet connection, contact us to arrange to use one of our Open Labs well in advance of the deadline.
Use the recommended browsers: This web site is designed to work with most modern Web browsers. For best results, we recommend you always use the current version of the supported browsers. Download the most recent versions here:
Web Browser Download Sites:
 | Microsoft Internet Explorer 8 or later for Windows (Mac no longer supported) |
| Mozilla Firefox 3.5 or later for Windows or Mac |
| Apple Safari 4 or later for Mac |
Enable Javascript: This allows interactive features to work properly. For more information on enabling JavaScript, see your browser's Help. In addition, If you use a pop-up blocker, temporarily allow pop-ups while on this site. This ensures all information is displayed and all interactive features work properly.
Use the recommended software: While you are welcome to use the image editing software that you are most familiar with, we strongly encourage Adobe Photoshop for formatting and saving your images for uploading to the website. Our technical assistance and HelpLines are not versed in all versions of image editing software and may not be able to help you with trouble-shooting for all types of software. Do not use trial versions of software as they are not reliable and may not have all the capabilities of a full version.
FAQs
I’m having trouble uploading my images, what can I do?
Please read the Guidelines for Formating Image document located on the Application Process page before contacting us. If you are sure your images meet the upload requirements, use our Contact Form and we will try to assist you in any way we can.
How is photography defined for the purposes of this fellowship?
Photography and the photographic practice is broadly defined within the Fellowship to reflect the diversity of photography within contemporary art including installation based work, book projects, appropriation based work and traditional photography.
Which category should I apply for: Visual Arts or Photography?
The question as to which McKnight Artists Fellowship program to apply (Visual Artists vs. Photographers) is a question arising from an increasing number of artist’s working in multi-disciplinary practices. This decision is ultimately up to the artist and how they feel there work best fits the fellowship program to which they are applying. Keep in mind that you may only apply to one program each cycle and that the work should be “primarily photographic in nature” to apply to the Fellowship for Photographers. If you have specific concerns or questions please contact the Fellowship Director prior to submitting your application.
What work should I select to submit?
Your work samples should show a consistent body of work and focus, not everything you have ever done. The work samples should demonstrate your fine art practice and not commercial production.
How will the Jurors view my work in the first round?
The jurors will view the work in the first round on a calibrated computer monitor. The process is blind and the artist’s names are not visible in the first round. The images are viewed in the sequence set within your application.
How long will I have to make physical prints if I am selected to be a finalist?
Finalists will be notified a minimum of two weeks prior to the final review to provide time to prepare images for the presentation.
I make commercial work and fine art – will this be weighed against me?
No, commercial work is not weighed against applicants; however your application should only show fine art work samples. Commercial work should not be part of your fellowship plan or work samples.