“At the time, I was coming of age and trying to figure out if I could be an artist at all, if the world would let me and receive what I might have to offer. Francis, in particular, opened that door for me and the community of support helped make me the artist I am today, both in the sense of me finding that space for myself, and carrying forth that sensibility of placemaking and mutual support” - Vijay Iyer
Building sustainable careers, expanding bases of support, and cultivating strategic mindsets all rooted in values of community and collective care.
Fellows receive a stipend while having the opportunity to interact with multiple generations of AIR artists and engage with community organizers through site visits shining light on the Asian American movement past and present. Additionally, the fellowship provides each artist with one-on-one mentorship, grant writing support, professional development workshops, and production support, all towards bolstering our fellows as they step into becoming leaders of the next generation.
![[May 14, 2023] And the Community Will Rise - Chloe Luo in ACWR by LLD. Photo by Robbie Swe](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2784d5_9a0d76678dbe4bd294880c785f8424cc~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_491,h_327,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/2784d5_9a0d76678dbe4bd294880c785f8424cc~mv2.jpg)
Photo Credit: Chloe Luo by Robbie Sweeny
"Being an artist is not about identifying as one, but more so about being deeply immersed in the work."
- Francis Wong, AIR Co-Founder
Each year, AIR works with partner organizations to fund the creation of new works by artists making waves in their respective fields.
Co-commissions give our artists the space, support, and resources necessary to advance their practice and share their vital voices with communities across the nation.
AIR Fellows (L - R): Photo of Katie Quan by Kevin Yuen, Photo of Erika Oba by David DeHart, Photo of Peekaboo / transcriptions by Gary Sexton, Photo of Lynn Huang by Mark Shigenaga,
Photo of Scott Oshiro by Lenore Chinn, Photo of Shantre Pinkney courtesy of the artist, Photo of Vida Kuang courtesy of the artist.