Artist in Residency (AIR) 2026
Applications open February 9th 2026
Following the success of its inaugural year, the Arts Alliance of Yamhill County (AAYC) and Recology Western Oregon are proud to continue the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program in 2026. This ongoing partnership supports local artists who create original work using recycled and reclaimed materials from the McMinnville Transfer Station.
Each year, selected artists are chosen from a talented pool of applicants across Yamhill County to participate in a four month residency. Artists receive a monthly stipend, studio space, and access to salvaged materials while exploring new creative possibilities rooted in sustainability.
The residency culminates in a public exhibition and Pop Up Gallery during the Art Harvest Studio Tour in McMinnville. A portion of artwork sales supports AAYC’s mission to expand arts access, advocacy, and education throughout the region.
Applications for the 2026 Artist in Residence Program will open February 9th 2026, and AAYC looks forward to welcoming the next group of artists into this growing program.
Meet the 2025 AIR Artists
Blaine Niehus
Blaine Niehus is a welding artist whose work fuses industrial strength with organic beauty. With a background in metal fabrication and a creative mindset, Blaine transforms raw steel and recycled materials into expressive pieces that are sure to grab your attention.
Jessica Husvar
Born and raised in Oregon, Jessica didn’t begin pursuing art seriously until college, where a spontaneous interest led her to teach herself watercolor by painting her way through an encyclopedia of owls. Her work has diversified, but to this day continues to be inspired by animals, landscapes, and the quiet beauty of wild places. She has traveled across the country and around the world, always taking her art with her—selling original paintings and creating murals that reflect the spirit of each place.
Exploring Recology and Safety Training!
