BLM Announces 2026 Canyon Country Artist-in-Residence
MOAB, Utah — The Bureau of Land Management is thrilled to welcome Colorado photographer Josh Schutz as the 2026 Canyon Country Artist-in-Residence. Schutz will be in residence from October 12 to 25, using historic techniques like wet plate collodion tintypes, ambrotypes, and dry plate photography to create striking, one-of-a-kind images of the American West that echo the spirit of the region's earliest photographic expeditions.
Working with large-format cameras and a portable darkroom, Schutz's images explore the relationship between landscape, history, and stewardship. His work connects viewers to the cultural and natural heritage of public lands, using processes that were contemporary to the very first photographic expeditions through this country.
The residency also arrives at a meaningful moment for the nation. As America approaches its 250th birthday, this residency is proud to support the spirit of Freedom 250, honoring the people, places, and stories that have shaped our country's history. Schutz's use of 19th century photographic processes offers a fitting way to reflect on that legacy, connecting the earliest days of American photography to the landscapes that continue to define our shared heritage today.
Schutz's love for these landscapes runs deep, shaped by years spent exploring and working on public lands across Colorado. That hands-on connection to the land shows up in every photograph he makes.
“As an artist working in historical photographic processes, I am interested in how photography can influence the way people experience and value landscapes,” said Schutz. “Early images of the American West helped shape public understanding of wilderness and played an important role in building support for conservation and preservation. Through this residency, I hope to continue that tradition by creating work that encourages visitors to slow down, observe more carefully, and develop a stronger emotional connection to these fragile desert environments.”
"Josh brings a rare combination of technical mastery and genuine reverence for these landscapes," said Kyle Beagley, Acting Moab Field Office Manager. "His work doesn't just document a place; it captures its history and asks us to think about our role in caring for it. We're thrilled to host him this October and can't wait to share what he creates."
The purpose of the Bureau of Land Management AiR Program is to provide artistic and educational opportunities to promote deeper understanding of, and dialogue about, the natural, cultural, and historic resources managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The BLM Artist-in-Residence Program aspires to share with the public the scenic beauty and unique stories of BLM and the National Landscape Conservation System through the world of art.
For more information about the Artist-in-Residence program and to see previous years’ products, visit Canyon Country Artist in Residence.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.