The Kahn–Kirwin Foundation, a new nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting artists and writers, is thrilled to announce its inaugural programs. Established by artist Scott Kahn and poet Frederick Kirwin, the Foundation seeks to offer creative practitioners what its founders rarely had: time, stability, and the quiet assurance that their work matters. This fall, the Foundation commences its core programs: a Rome-based residency, an Artist Relief Fund, and research initiatives. 

“Fred and I established the Kahn–Kirwin Foundation to give something back to artists. We have been very fortunate. Over the years, people believed in us, advised us, and helped us at moments when that support really mattered. We also benefited from grants and foundations that gave us opportunities to continue working. Now, finally, we are in a position where we can do that for others,” said Scott Kahn, Co-Chair of the Kahn–Kirwin Foundation.

“To paraphrase Melody, a thirteen-year-old poetess in my play BILLY AND DAKOTA, ‘Americans love poetry but hate to read it.’ We hope to change that, if only in a small way, through the Kahn–Kirwin Foundation by supporting art and poetry of fire, depth, and necessity,” said Frederick Kirwin, Co-Chair of the Kahn–Kirwin Foundation.

The Rome Residency

The Kahn–Kirwin Foundation’s inaugural residency took place in Torvaianica, Rome, with artists Nicholas Westover Farhi, Noah Schneiderman, and Milly Skellington, each of whom will present work in an exhibition organized by Scott Kahn in the spring of 2027. Through the residency, artists and writers receive housing, studio space, and access to cultural engagements in Rome. The next cycle is set to take place in summer 2027, with applications opening in January 2027.

“Being next to the ocean, with an entire month to focus on making work, gave me the freedom to experiment, explore new ideas, and reflect,” shared Schneiderman. “Meeting artists who are prime examples of what can happen when you truly dedicate yourself to your practice was particularly meaningful, and these encounters will no doubt have a lasting impact on my own work.”

Artist Relief Fund

This winter, the Kahn–Kirwin Foundation also opens applications for its Artist Relief Fund, which provides timely grants of up to $1,000 to visual artists, poets, and writers facing a recent and unexpected financial hardship resulting from a medical emergency, accident, fire or studio damage, theft, bereavement, urgent travel, or loss of essential workspace or equipment. The Fund offers flexible, short-term support focused on urgent needs, with a transparent application process. The 2027 application windows are January 18–29, 2027, and July 12–23, 2027. 

Legacy and Scholarship

Beyond the residency and relief fund, the Kahn–Kirwin Foundation supports the digitization, study, and preservation of the artistic and literary archives of Scott Kahn and Frederick Kirwin, expanding access for scholars, curators, students, and the public. Through academic partnerships, the Foundation works with universities and cultural institutions on research and educational programming.

For more information on eligibility and application guidelines for the Artist Relief Fund, please click HERE.

Image courtesy of Scott Kahn and Frederick Kirwin, Kahn–Kirwin Foundation