The SURF AiR programme provides opportunities for artists to create work inspired by the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF), which is set in the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA.
The SURF AiR includes a four-week on-site visit in the summer and a one-week art installation/guest lecture visit in the fall. Timeframes for the visits will be determined by each artist’s schedule in coordination with SURF (please note, available dates for the summer visit are between 22 May and 31 July 2025 and the fall installation/guest lecture visit is scheduled for October 2025).
At 4,850 feet deep, SURF is the deepest underground laboratory in the United States and is located in the former Homestake Gold Mine. The facility houses experiments in physics, biology, geology, and engineering. The SURF AiR programme leverages the unique characteristics of SURF and the science experiments it hosts to create awareness and encourage interdisciplinary work. This residency is modeled after various programmes offered by government, science and industry including the National Park Service, CERN, and Fermilab.
Artists must undergo safety training at SURF and wear the appropriate personal protective equipment, which will be on loan while the artist is on site. SURF provides a guide for all onsite activities at and artists must be accompanied by their designated guide at all times. Working underground requires the artist to be comfortable in dark spaces and follow all safety protocols.
The SURF AiR Programme includes the following for the artist: transportation in the form of airfare, rental car or mileage, housing and per diem for both visits; access to a studio space; and tours of the surfaces and underground facilities. A stipend of 5,000 USD will be paid in two installments. The artist may apply for up to 5,000 USD in additional funds to be used for the creation of the artwork. SURF will cover the cost of return shipping from the exhibition of up to 7,000 USD.
