FAQs

1. What will decisions be based on for admission to this program?

Artists of all academic pedigree - from BA, BFA, MFA to Self-taught - are encouraged to apply!

What is most important for us to see is developed and considered work in the artists portfolio and a sincere and committed interest in this year-long program. Artists that are ready to work in response to assignments and projects is optimal. Being open to feedback and being able to also offer genuine feedback to peers is a huge part of this experience!

2. What do I need to apply?

Artists can apply with an updated website or a PDF of 15-20 images of work for review. On the application form you will also be asked to write a brief statement of intent.

Please note: Instagram is not a tool for us to review artists' work.

3. How do I know which Cohort Mentor is the best fit for me to work with?

We recommend watching the Cohort Mentor introduction videos featured on the Cohort pages to learn more about their work + teaching philosophy. Ultimately, each Cohort Mentor is equipped to discuss and help a wide range of mediums and techniques but your preference needs to be a personal choice.

The Canopy Program's Founder, Catherine Haggarty, often hosts Office Hours during the application period where you can sign up to discuss this with her and she will offer her expert opinion based on your work! Join our Mailing List to receive alerts about future Info Sessions + Office Hours!

4. What if I don't live in NYC?

Totally fine! In addition to In Person Cohorts for artists based in NYC, The Canopy Program offers Virtual Cohorts, which conducts all meetings via Zoom. Artists from across the globe are encouraged to apply to a Virtual Cohort.

Please note: Occasional NYC meet-ups will be hosted throughout the program’s year. Also the final group show at the will take place in New York. All artists will be responsible for shipping their work to + from NYC.

5. What is the time commitment of this program?

The Canopy Program is made available twice a year; program semesters follow the calendar year or academic year.
Each program year is composed of three semesters:

  • Semester 1: FOUNDATIONS - 9 weekly meetings w/ Cohort + Mentor

  • Semester 2: VISITING CRITICS - Access to virtual Artist Lectures + 2 Critique opportunities w/ Visiting Critics and development of Artist Statements with a guest Writing Critic

  • Semester 3: THE FULL PICTURE - 9 weekly meetings w/ Cohort + Mentor

Plus! All Cohorts will have access to asynchronous content such as bonus lectures + workshops throughout the program year!

6. What is the workload and can an artist handle having a job and being in the Canopy Program?

YES! Most, if not all artists are able to balance a work/life balance and family obligations within The Canopy Program. The workload reflects a dedicated studio life where artists continually make their work as they would but within the Canopy there are deadlines and prompts to help artists focus and hone in on specific ideas both formally and conceptually.

7. What if I miss a meeting?

This happens occasionally and we understand, meeting notes and recordings will be offered for all artists in the program. We highly encourage consistent attendance on all class meetings and that commitment is an important part of the acceptance and participation of the program.

8. Will I get small group feedback?

Yes, all artists will have the opportunity for small group meetings of 5 members for more focused feedback. There will be many occasions for artists to connect with other artists and review one another’s work and ideas. We believe it is important to provide artists with the opportunity to receive a range of feedback from mentors, critics and fellow artists.

9. Is there Financial Aid or Scholarship opportunities to help alleviate the cost of the tuition?

Yes! Please view Tuition and Financial Aid to learn more about the full cost of the program and available Financial Aid. Payment plans are available fro ALL artists and we are open to providing Financial Aid to all need based artists. We strive to make sure all accepted artists can participate.

BIPOC Scholarships are also available, in addition to the James Bernard Haggarty Scholarship which will award one artist per Cohort 50% off the full program’s tuition.

10. Should I apply if I am not sure I can afford the program but I really want to do the program?

- Yes! Ultimately on the application, we can review your requests for financial aid and scholarships and if accepted, we will offer you a seat and a financial aid package. You then have 5 days to decide if you'd like to accept this seat and or request more aid or a more spread out payment plan. 

11. What happens if I am waitlisted?

We will reserve a seat for you and contact you immediately if someone drops within the first two weeks of the new program year commencing. Alternatively, if a space does not become available or you would like to defer, we are happy to reserve you a seat for the next upcoming Canopy Program year. You would receive first choice of your preferred Cohort Mentor.

NYC Crit Club plans to launch additional Cohorts in February 2024 w/ new Cohort Mentors for Spring, Summer + Fall 2024 (3 semesters = 1 program year).

12. Can you apply + participate in The Canopy Program more than once?

Yes! You are welcome to re-apply! All Canopy Program Artists are also welcome back at any time! We strongly believe that education never ceases, and that mentorship + development is valuable at all points of life.

If currently enrolled in The Canopy Program and have the ability to participate in 2 Cohorts, you are welcome to apply for an upcoming Cohort.