Artist-in-residence
2027 Artist-in-Residence - Request for proposals
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum invites Milwaukee-area artists to apply for its 2027 Artist-in-Residence program. Proposals are due Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. CST.
About the Opportunity
Betty Brinn Children’s Museum is seeking a creative and engaging Milwaukee-area artist to join its 2027 Artist-in-Residence program. Open to artists working in visual arts, music, dance, theater, storytelling, textiles, sculpture and other creative disciplines, this yearlong residency offers an opportunity to share artistic talents with Milwaukee families while inspiring creativity, curiosity and self-expression in children from birth to age 8.
The program connects local artists with young learners and their caregivers through hands-on experiences that encourage exploration, imagination and meaningful family interactions.
Artist responsibilities
The selected artist will collaborate with Museum staff to develop and lead engaging, age-appropriate experiences for children and families. Responsibilities include facilitating hands-on activities, introducing visitors to their artistic practice through interactive programming and creating welcoming opportunities for children and caregivers to explore, experiment and express themselves.
Eligibility and proposal requirements
This opportunity is open to Milwaukee-area artists across a variety of creative disciplines. Applicants should have experience in their artistic field, an interest in working with young children and families and the ability to make their creative practice accessible and engaging for Museum visitors.
Proposals should highlight the artist's background, creative approach and ideas for interactive programming that encourages artistic exploration, self-expression and family participation.
Program Goals
The Artist-in-Residence program introduces children and families to diverse artistic practices and perspectives while strengthening connections between Milwaukee's creative community and Museum visitors. Through playful, hands-on experiences, the programs aim to support early childhood development, encourage collaboration and self-expression and give young learners opportunities to build confidence, discover new interests and experience the joy of creativity.
View the Full Request for Proposals.
Interested artists are invited to submit their proposals to Sara Bruesewitz at sbruesewitz@bbcmkids.org by Thursday, November 12, 2026, at 5 p.m. CST.
Meet our 2026 artist-in-residence, malik!
Malik Johnson a.k.a. “99TheProducer” is a Grammy-nominated classically trained cellist, composer and music producer based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Malik has been passionately teaching music to youth across Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin to help them discover the transformative power of music. He has had the honor of performing alongside artists like Stevie Wonder, John Legend and PJ Morton. Malik continues to produce for various artists, blending his classical training with modern sounds to create music that inspires and connects with audiences of all ages.
Artist-in-Residence Programs
- Performances: Families are invited to listen or get up and dance along during Malik's 30-minute cello performance at the Museum.
- Toddler Talkbacks: Community conversations for parents and kids to explore social-emotional learning areas like positive self-expression and dreaming big dreams. Led by Malik Johnson in partnership with other community leaders.
- Making Music Series: You don’t need fancy instruments to make music as a family. Join Malik Johnson for a hands-on experience learning how to use common home materials to create a unique DIY instrument.
Cello Performance
Making Music: Sensory Rain Stick
Cello Performance
Cello Performance
Cello Performance
Cello Performance
The 2026 Artist-in-Residence is sponsored by Dr. Michael & Susan Goldstone. Because of their vision and investment, the Artist-in-Residence programs are offered at no additional cost to our visitors, bringing world-class artistry and inspiration directly to our community.