Anne van Biema Fellowship 2026: Up to $60,000 for Japanese Visual Arts Research
Are you a scholar passionate about Japanese visual arts? The Anne van Biema Fellowship 2026 offers up to $60,000 to support your research at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art in Washington, DC. This fellowship aims to boost high-quality research and publications in this field. Applications close on May 4, 2026, so now is the time to prepare.
What Is the Anne van Biema Fellowship?
The Anne van Biema Fellowship was created through a bequest to encourage top research on Japanese visual arts. It funds work done at the National Museum of Asian Art. Scholars at postdoctoral or senior levels can apply for terms from two to twelve months. The fellowship does not renew.
Proposals get judged on merit, fresh ideas, strong methods, and the chance to create important publications. These works should help both experts and the public better understand Japanese visual arts. Proposals that mix disciplines are okay, as long as Japanese visual arts stay the main focus.
Key Benefits
Fellows receive a stipend up to $60,000, adjusted for shorter stays at about $5,000 per month. Extra funds up to $5,000 cover approved research and travel costs. You also get research space, a computer with internet, and full access to the museum’s art collections, archives, and Smithsonian libraries.
This setup lets you dive deep into your project without basic worries. Many past fellows have published books or articles that shape the field.
Who Can Apply?
Scholars from any country may apply. You must handle your own U.S. visas and residence needs. The Smithsonian can review you for a J-1 Visa if needed and support eligible applicants through the Exchange Visitor Program.
Pick this fellowship if you have postdoctoral or senior experience and a solid plan for Japanese visual arts research.
Application Requirements
Submit everything in English by email. Include these items:
- An application cover sheet.
- Your curriculum vitae with contact details and full publication list.
- A research proposal: a 250-word summary plus a narrative up to 2,000 words. Cover past work, why your project matters, methods, and timeline.
- A budget for research expenses, max $5,000.
- Two recommendation letters emailed separately. They should cover your proposal’s strength, research plan, past publications, and potential impact.
How to Submit Your Application
Email your full application to the provided address. Letters of recommendation go to a separate email. Check the official page for the Anne van Biema Fellowship for more details and forms. Start gathering materials now to meet the May 4, 2026 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Anne van Biema Fellowship?
It funds postdoctoral and senior scholars to conduct research on Japanese visual arts at the National Museum of Asian Art, offering up to $60,000 for terms of two to twelve months.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Postdoctoral or senior scholars from any country with a strong research proposal focused on Japanese visual arts can apply, handling their own U.S. visa needs.
What benefits does the fellowship provide?
Fellows get a stipend up to $60,000, up to $5,000 for research and travel costs, research space, a computer, and full access to museum collections and libraries.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Submit your application in English by email with a cover sheet, CV, proposal, budget, and two recommendation letters; the deadline is May 4, 2026.