The Cedars Union has announced the selection of 18 artists for Cohort VI, the sixth iteration of its signature incubator program designed to support emerging artists throughout North Texas.
During the 18-month residency, the newest cohort will receive subsidized studio space, access to shared tools and equipment, along with professional development opportunities to exhibit their work along with mentorship. The goal of the program is to situate artists within a collaborative community to foster the development of sustainable creative practices and careers. Additionally, the artists gain an instant community that encourages idea-sharing and fosters growth in a receptive environment.
Emma Vernon, executive director of The Cedars Union, states, “Artists thrive when they have access to space, resources, and a community that believes in their work… Cohort VI reflects the depth of talent and creativity emerging across North Texas today.”
The newly selected artists are comprised of Paul Armstrong, Emma Camp, Tyler Germaine, William Gerst, Madeline Herrera, Laken Jefferson, Nitashia Johnson, Aidan Kearns, Aileen Khuu, Agnes Ma, Analise Minjarez, Nini Nguyen, Alicia Parham, Maxwell Pius, Marcus Rey, Elijah Ruhala, Sharmeen Uqaili, and Christina Vasquez.
Although the artists engage with diverse media and disciplines, recurring themes each touch on include identity, memory, place and community, hidden systems, material transformation, cultural traditions, and collective experience.
“These artists are asking thoughtful questions, experimenting with new approaches, and creating work that speaks to the communities around them,” Vernon said. “We’re excited to support them as they continue to grow their practices.”
Cohort VI was selected from a competitive applicant pool by a jury composed of artists, curators, and arts leaders representing institutions across Dallas.
The jury consisted of Emily Budd, assistant professor of art in sculpture at Southern Methodist University; Thomas Feulmer, curator at The Warehouse; Christina Hahn, artist, curator, and alumna of The Cedars Union’s Cohort IV; Ade Omotosho, The Nancy and Tim Hanley Assistant Curator of Contemporary Art at the Dallas Museum of Art; and Ahava Silkey-Jones, vice provost of the School of Creative Arts, Entertainment and Design at Dallas College, and the forthcoming executive director of the Dallas Arts District.
Situated in Dallas’ historic Cedars neighborhood, The Cedars Union remains a nonprofit arts incubator that provides affordable workspace, equipment, and professional resources to emerging artists. Through residency cohorts, exhibitions, workshops, and public programming, the organization promotes experimentation and collaboration while connecting artists to audiences across North Texas.
Further information regarding the Cohort VI artists is available from The Cedars Union.