Cactus+, the arts education nonprofit partner of Milwaukee’s Cactus Club, has officially announced an open call for the second annual "In the Clouds" (ITC) artist residency. Launched as a core component of the Cactus+ Accessibility Initiative, the program is designed to address systemic barriers and provide a formal avenue for artists to develop their work with dedicated resources.
The residency’s name is a nod to the iconic cloud installation hanging above the stage in the Cactus Club live room. While Cactus+ began as an accessibility initiative seeking to make the venue’s 140-year-old building ADA-compliant, it has evolved to focus on centering disabled, neurodivergent and chronically ill artists. By providing these specific opportunities, Cactus+ aims to improve access for both creators and audiences alike
Following its successful 2025 debut, the 2026 program — generously funded by the Wilhelm Family Foundation — will consist of three artist residents:
- One virtual residency conducted through digital channels.
- Two in-person residencies utilizing the club's physical workspace and resources.
Selected residents will receive a $1,500 stipend, and have the opportunity to connect with other local artists and community organizations. As part of their tenure, artists will organize a community event and participate in an artist talk to reflect on their work and the program. These events will be hosted at the Cactus Club or online to ensure continued accessibility.
The residency seeks Wisconsin-based emerging or established artists working in a wide array of media, including:
- Photography and video/film
- Digital media/internet art
- Music and sound design
- Painting, drawing and printmaking
- Ceramics, fibers and sculpture
- Writing, dance and performance
The application window is currently open and will close just before midnight Sunday, April 12. You can find more details about the artist residency and apply on the program’s webpage.