artist-in-residence program

We believe in
the power of the arts.
Each year, the Artist-in-Residence Program at National Children’s Museum will partner with a Washington, DC-based artist to provide arts programming and opportunities for children and families to explore creative collaboration. These offerings will complement the wonder of the Museum experience, spark creativity and curiosity within young learners, and draw inspiration from the Museum’s STEAM exhibits.
With support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Museum will begin accepting artist applications for the 2023 program year this spring! Check back soon for more details.
2021 artist-in-residence
Tommy Bobo is a DC artist who makes art primarily with lights and computers, but also enjoys watercolors, writing, and video. His work is sometimes about people and history, the ineptitude of technology, or the color of the sky on his walk to work. Tommy received a BFA in Expanded Media Art from the University of Kansas in 2006 and his MFA in Studio Art from the Mount Royal School of Art at the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2014. He has taught art and design at American University and the Maryland Institute College of Art. His work has been covered in Sculpture Magazine, Washington City Paper, and The Washington Post. Learn more about Tommy’s work by visiting his website.
Supported by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

on-demand programs
Rainbow Ant Farm:
Art meets bugs!
In this video, Tommy Bobo puts a fun twist on traditional sand art with the help of some ants!
Frankenbunnies:
Welding with food!
In this video, Tommy Bobo uses the engineering concept of welding to make unique chocolate creations.