Frequently Asked Questions for the Cohort Program

What are the qualifying criteria for the Cohort Program?

Lead Museums:

• US museum
• Art museum with a substantial American art collection that it’s willing and able to share
• Completed at least 1 art-sharing project with Art Bridges
• Strong history of community engagement
• Has gallery space available during the next 6 years to host cohort projects

Cohort Members:

• US museum
• Art museum with strong history of American art exhibitions
• Strong history of community engagement and onsite programming
• Has a Director of Education or similar position on staff
• Has gallery space available during the next 6 years to host

Do you require matching funds for the project?

No.

How does Art Bridges define American art?

Art Bridges understands American art as "art of the American experience" and thus not tied to citizenship or a specific time frame. These works may be created by artists who were born outside the US or have worked outside the US but have meaningful ties to the country. Therefore, art shared may exist outside of your designated American art collection or American art department.

Will art commissions be funded?

No, the Cohort Program travels artworks that already exist and thus does not support the creation of new works. However, you may apply for Learning & Engagement funding that covers community art projects, artist residencies or workshops.

Is the Ki Futures Accessible Loans Program optional?

No, every cohort lead and member in the program must participate in this program. Representation from executive, registration, curatorial, learning and engagement, and facilities is recommended.

I’m a lead museum, and I’m interested in building a cohort but am unsure with whom to partner. Can Art Bridges help?

The Art Bridges Cohort team is happy to help research and identify potential cohort members based on your museum’s interests, mission and goals. While we are happy to provide recommendations, you are not required to move forward with any of them.

Is applying for Learning & Engagement funding optional?

Although not required, we expect all partners to apply for this funding, as it is a core component of activating your shared artworks and welcoming new communities to your museum.

Our cohort would like to publish a hardback catalog. Are these funded through the program?

No, however, research that takes other forms without charge can be considered for funding support.

I’m interested in joining the Cohort Program as a cohort member. How do I apply for funding?

Potential cohort members are required to be invited to be part of a cohort to participate in the Cohort Program. If you are not associated with a specific cohort, please email the Cohort Program team. We’re happy to have a conversation to determine next steps.

What kinds of art may be shared through the Cohort Program?

We encourage diversity in the kinds of artistic mediums shared and recommend cohorts travel readily shareable art. We welcome conversations about what art is most compelling to lend and borrow for your communities.

How often do cohorts launch?

We anticipate launching 4-6 cohorts per year, starting in the summer of 2025. Applications and timelines for future “waves,” or groups of cohorts, will be announced.

How many museums are in a cohort?

A cohort consists of 4-6 museum partners, including a lead museum, who serves as the administrative hub.

Can I start at any point in the Cohort Program?

No, every cohort must begin at Phase 1 before moving on to Phase 2 and then Phase 3.